In serving our country, our service men and women are to be respected above all others. 

As we reflect today on the loss and sacrifices made by those that have served our country, a look at the words of Abraham Lincoln's words seems appropriate. 

I am greatly obliged to you, and to all who have come forward at the call of their country.
--August 22, 1864 Speech to the One Hundred Sixty-fourth Ohio Regiment

Today, we don't conscript men into the military. They join voluntarily. They heed a higher call. 

"It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced." 
--November 19, 1863 Gettysburg Address

A challenge. One that is as important today as ever before. We must protect our freedoms. We must stand strong for what is right. We must rigidly resist evil. 

We live in a scary, crazy upside down world. Nobody can be a bystander. We must all safeguard the country for which so much has been given. We must all find our place and give our all. 

While we are grateful to all the brave men and officers for the events of the past few days, we should, above all, be very grateful to Almighty God, who gives us victory.
--May 9, 1864 Response to a Serenade

The first battlefield we must enter is on our knees. Our country needs our prayers above all else.

For all who have sacrificed, we thank you.