Wednesday, June 1, 2016

House Speaker Joseph Souki's Memorial Day 2016 Speech



MEMORIAL DAY 2016 AT THE MAUI VETERANS CEMETERY



More than 70 years ago, you, a generation of young Americans left your mark on history.  Your story is one of heroism and bravery, of citizenship and global responsibility. 

You were all young then, simply trying to make your way through life in a world full of confusion and upheaval.  Your response to those challenges have become legendary.

In the face of prejudice, you not only stared down your own fears, but the fears of a nation in the grip of war. 

In the face of ignorance, you gave us a renewed understanding of the immigrant experience upon which this country was built.

In the face of bigotry, you provided a lesson for people from all backgrounds and for all times.

You are part of our country’s Greatest Generation who helped shape the world—for decades to come.
 
All that you have achieved remains as bright and clear as ever.

It shines whenever repressed individuals around the world look to us for encouragement and support.

It shines whenever Americans gather to exercise their freedoms.

It shines whenever we look into our own hearts to search for the best in ourselves.

Today we stand here honoring your sacrifice and the men and women who gave their lives in service to our great nation.

You fought for the right of all individuals to purse life, liberty and happiness. 

Your legacy is not just something carved in stone on a monument.

Your legacy is a living, breathing nation that continues to defy ignorance and bigotry.

Your legacy is all of us. 





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