The following remarks were made by Speaker of the House Robert A. DeLeo during in observance of Memorial Day on May 25, 2020.
It’s a pleasure to join you today.
We are all doing things differently right now, and I’m very grateful to have this opportunity to speak to you right now – even remotely. We have all had to pivot and adjust to this reality. I’m proud to be able to continue this great annual tradition of speaking to you.
This year’s Memorial Day is particularly poignant as we’ve seen the Veterans’ community be hit harder than many when it comes to COVID-19.
I am proud that the Massachusetts House of Representatives has taken action to protect those who have served and are now living in Soldiers’ Homes.
While investigations are ongoing, we have passed legislation to enhance reporting and ensure that the public, and the families of those in Soldiers’ Homes, are provided with reliable, up-to-date information so that we can fully and responsibly respond to public health crises.
On behalf of the Commonwealth, I would like to express our gratitude to all servicemen and women for their loyalty to our nation.
We appreciate the bravery that they have shown, the sacrifices made by their families and loved ones, and the hugely positive impact that they’ve made on our nation and its history.
Whether our servicemen and women died in World War II, Vietnam or the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, we pay tribute to them.
It remains so important that remain committed to giving back to our veterans. When they come home, we want them to know that they will be guaranteed the best services that the nation has to offer.
I’m very proud of everything Massachusetts does for its veterans. We rank first in the nation when it comes to assisting veterans and military personnel.
It’s an honor to be here with you to offer our profound thanks for those serving today and those who have served our country through the years, some making the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our country.
Although we can never fully repay them, for their service, we can keep these brave soldiers from the past—and from the present—in our thoughts and prayers.
Thank you again for coming together as we honor these courageous men and women.
God bless the United States of America.Robert A. DeLeo is Speaker of the House of Representatives.
