As we come together this Memorial Day, I encourage all of us to make the holiday more than a welcoming of summer filled with barbeques and time on the lake. Let us come together to honor the true meaning of Memorial Day by recognizing the ultimate sacrifice thousands made as they defended our freedoms and gave their lives protecting our country.
On Memorial Day, Americans will pay tribute to the fallen men and women who served in our armed forces. Unlike Veterans Day honoring all veterans, this holiday is reserved for commemorating those who died while on active duty, in battle or as a result of wounds sustained while serving. These are not just soldiers from long ago wars, but also the young and brave across the globe who are in harms way.
In addition to placing flags at gravesites of our fallen heroes, there are other ways to honor Memorial Day. Families can spend time learning learn about military service by visiting storycorps.org to watch veterans share their stories and experiences. You can also join me in participating in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time on May 31.
One of the highest honors a solider can receive is the Purple Heart award for their bravery, loyalty and heroic actions in combat. This medal can be given to veterans who have been wounded in battle or who were killed in the line of duty. In Indiana, those bestowed this prestigious award can obtain Purple Heart license plates for their vehicles. When you see a car with this plate, you know they earned this medal or they are the spouse of a Purple Heart recipient. This legislative session, I supported a new law allowing spouses of Purple Heart recipients to continue renewing these plates and honoring their loved one who passed away. It may seem like a small gesture, but it is one worth solidifying in law.
On Memorial Day, or whenever possible, please take time to honor and commit to never forgetting those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. Families of fallen heroes and veterans, please reach out to me for assistance with navigating earned benefits and resources by calling 317-232-9802 or emailing h74@iga.in.gov. As a veteran, I myself know the pain of serving alongside comrades who are no longer with us. In their memory, I offer my deepest respect and extend my sincerest sympathy to their families. God bless, and thank you for your service to our country.
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State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) represents House District 74,
which includes portions of Spencer, Dubois, Perry, Crawford and Orange counties.
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