ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) – President Barack Obama saluted Americans who died in battle and made special mention on Memorial Day of the families of lost loved ones “who represent the best of who we are.”
In comments at Arlington National Cemetery on Monday, Obama said most Americans don’t understand the sacrifice made by the 1 percent of the population that serves in the all-volunteer Armed Forces. But when he meets with “Gold Star” families that have lost loved ones through military service, Obama said he hears “their pride through their tears.”
“I see that their hearts are still broken, and yet still full of love,” he said. “They do not ask for awards or honors. They do not ask for special treatment. They are unfailingly humble. In the face of unspeakable loss, they represent the best of who we are.”
Obama’s appearance is an annual rite for presidents at the cemetery nestled among hills overlooking the Potomac River. Before his remarks, Obama laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns. He bowed his head briefly and listened with others as “Taps” was sounded.
Introducing Obama, Defense Secretary Ash Carter said: “We, your fellow Americans, lack the words to describe what you feel today because try as we may, and try as we do, we can never fully know. But we do know what your sacrifice means to us.”