Bill Clinton

“ By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Each spring, our Nation pauses to remember those who have died securing our peace and freedom. Across our country, Americans are holding ceremonies in remembrance of those who have died under the colors of our Nation. We remember the brave men and women whose sacrifices have paved the way for us to live in a country like America. We remember the families of our fallen heroes, and we grieve for their losses. And we remember the men and women who are now serving in our Armed Forces. ”

“ Through two centuries and several wars, America has remained the land of the free and the home of the brave. The Persian Gulf war reaffirmed that international peace and security depend on our Nation's vigilance and on the sacrifices of our service men and women. Even in this post-Cold War era, we must be wary, for the world still remains a dangerous place. ”

“ In the war with Iraq and more recently in our peacekeeping operations in Somalia, more names of young Americans have been added to the roster of our departed heroes. Young service men and women who died in the Persian Gulf joined Americans who left their mark on history at places like the Argonne in World War I, Omaha Beach in World War II, and Pork Chop Hill in Korea, and in the jungles and rice paddies of Vietnam. ”