05/25/2026
Today we pay honor and respect with profound gratitude for the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation and the freedoms we cherish. Their courage, devotion, and willingness to give all they had remind us of the true cost of liberty and the enduring weight of their sacrifice.
As we honor these heroes, we also remember the loyal animals who have stood beside American service members throughout our military history. From land to air to sea, these faithful companions have served with unwavering dedication, often sharing the dangers and burdens of war.
On LAND, countless animals fulfilled essential roles. Our highly trained military dogs carried out critical missions with unmatched skill and loyalty. Horses, oxen, mules, and many others supported transportation, logistics, communication, and lifesaving operations—each contributing in ways that shaped the success of our forces.
In the AIR, pigeons played an extraordinary role in wartime communication. With remarkable reliability, they delivered thousands of messages—often under fire. Among them was Cher Ami, the courageous pigeon of the U.S. 77th Division, who completed his mission despite grave injuries, ultimately helping to save nearly 200 American soldiers known as the “Lost Battalion.”
At SEA, shipboard cats protected vital food storage and reduced the spread of disease by controlling rodent populations. Their presence, though humble, was indispensable to the health and safety of sailors on long and perilous voyages.
As we reflect on these contributions, human and animal alike, we are reminded of the sacred symbols that represent our nation. Our flag, with its stripes, colors, and stars, embodies the ideals, struggles, and sacrifices that have shaped the United States.
Today, I invite you to take fifteen minutes to reflect on what each part of our flag represents. If you already know its meaning, I encourage you to spend that time learning more about the extraordinary sacrifices made by our service members, men and women who gave everything so that we may live in freedom.
May we honor them not only with our words, but with our understanding, our gratitude, and our commitment to remember all they gave. 🇺🇸✝️🙏
