Bredesen Honors Fallen Soldiers at 2009 Memorial Day Ceremony
Thursday, May 21, 2009 | 11:48am
NASHVILLE - Governor Phil Bredesen Thursday joined officials from the Departments of Military and Veterans Affairs, members of the Tennessee Army and Air National Guard and members of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to honor the men and women of the U.S. armed forces and to pay a special tribute to the 10 Tennesseans who have died in combat since May 2008.
Governor Bredesen spoke about the cost of freedom, the legacy of fallen heroes and their commitment to service.
“It is a commitment we know of well in Tennessee because it has been made by so many to protect our land, our people and our values,” Bredesen said. “It is a commitment made by our husbands and wives, sons and daughters who stand up to say ‘I’m ready’ when our country needs them. It is a commitment made by selfless patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we may work towards the American dream.
“Today we unite to remember and to say thank you to these men and women, true ‘Tennessee volunteers’ for answering the call of service.”
Bredesen also emphasized the responsibilities our nation has to those who fight for our everyday freedoms.
“For those of us who benefit from that service, we are not without responsibilities of our own,” Bredesen said. “We as a nation owe a special debt to the millions of men and women who each day put themselves in harm’s way in our name.
“Our prayers remain with those Tennesseans and Americans who continue to serve, who are about to be deployed and the families that love them. A grateful state, a grateful nation and a grateful governor thank you for your service and sacrifice.”
Since last year, 10 of Tennessee’s men and women were killed in the line of duty. Their names were read aloud during Thursday’s ceremony, followed by a three round rifle volley to commemorate their service and sacrifice.
Memorial Day will be observed Monday, May 25, 2009.