Bono Mack and Ruiz Honor Veterans

As Memorial Day rememberances took place across the nation on Monday, the two candidates for the newly-formed 36th Congressional district issued statements regarding the holiday.

Dr. Raul Ruiz, D-Coachella, said via a press release,  “Today we remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our country, our values, and our freedoms." 

"On this holiday, I hope you will join me in taking a moment to honor them. The sacrifice of these brave men and women was not theirs alone, but one also borne by their families, loved ones, and fellow service members. They deserve our heartfelt thanks.”

In Coachella, Congressmember Mary Bono Mack was the keynote speaker at the Memorial Day ceremony at the Coachella Valley Cemetary.

“For Americans everywhere, this is a very special day," Bono Mack said.  "It’s a day to remember our fallen heroes. It’s day to reflect on what it means to each of us to be free. And it’s a day to appreciate the uncommon valor and true courage of self-sacrifice. The brave men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces – those who define the word ‘patriotism’ – have my profound respect and admiration. Their selflessness will stand as a lasting monument.

“No words can ever thank them enough for their sacrifices. Instead, the best way to show our respect, our love and our heart-felt appreciation is to treasure and safeguard the freedoms they fought and died for. As a nation, history has taught us that freedom isn’t free. And yet the willingness of some to give their lives so others may live continues to serve as a great beacon of hope – a hope that future generations of Americans will one day know a world at peace.

“The freedoms we enjoy today have come at a tremendous cost, and we must never forget that they’ve been paid in full with the blood and tears of our veterans and their families. So as we observe this Memorial Day, please join me in saying a prayer tonight for all of the brave men and women who have died in defense of America. As the great journalist Elmer Davis once said, ‘This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it remains the home of the brave.’

“May God bless all of our veterans and fallen heroes for their courage and their sacrifices.”