Comments across the Sunshine State for Memorial Day:
Florida Gov. Rick Scott
This weekend Floridians throughout our state will remember the men and women of the United States armed forces who have lost their lives while serving our country throughout our nations history. As wecome together with family and friends to honor our fallen military and veterans, let us also bring to mind the tremendous sacrifice they have made for our benefit.
Those who serve in the armed forces risk their lives to preserve our national independence and the unmatched freedom we enjoy as United States citizens. Our military defends our own democracy, as well as assists emerging democratic societies around the globe. These opportunities for freedom are made possible only through the selfless sacrifice of our military.
To those currently serving in the armed forces and the Florida National Guard, Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll, Ann and I want to express our appreciation for your bravery and willingness to spend time away from your family and loved ones. Know that we are praying for your safety and for your families here at home to receive the strength and support they need.
On Monday, I urge all Floridians to join me in observing a Moment of Remembrance at 12-noon local time. This time of reflection will honor the men and women of our military, both past and present, for their service and sacrifice.
Attorney General Pam Bondi
As we spend this Memorial Day weekend enjoying time with family and friends, let us not forget that Memorial Day is about remembering and honoring the courageous men and women who sacrificed their lives so that we could enjoy our freedom.
While we enjoy this long holiday weekend, join me in taking time to remember those who dedicated their lives to military service and who died to keep our nation the greatest in the world.
If you see a man or woman in uniform, be sure to thank them for all that they do to protect us and our liberty.
Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater
"Memorial Day, unfortunately, has become more about retail and parties than understanding the importance of remembrance and the solemn celebration it should be in our lives. We may not think about the Civil War when we think about Memorial Day, although it would make perfect sense to do so.
"The history of Memorial Day and how we honor our fallen heroes is rooted in a day from the Civil War called Decoration Day. In the late 1860s, northern Civil War veterans led by Gen. John A. Logan called for a day of remembrance: 'The 30th of May is designated for the purpose ... decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country ... and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land ...'
"As you come together with family and friends, remember those who gave their lives throughout our history so that we can enjoy the freedoms we have today. Remember the families missing a mother, father, sister, brother or friend, and wave your flag for them. Decorate your home in the colors of our flag, and keep our fallen heroes and their families in your thoughts and prayers so the ideals and principles that America's soldiers fight and die for are never forgotten."
U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Miami
This Memorial Day, I join my fellow Floridians in celebrating the bravery and heroism of our servicemen and women, both past and present, who honorably answer the call in defense of liberty. For me. it is a distinct honor to work in the Senate on behalf of all of our veterans who today continue the legacy of those we have lost.
"With American service members currently deployed all over the world, it is important that we take the time both as a nation and personally, to reflect on the sacrifices that our military men and women make on a regular basis, and have been making since our founding. America has been blessed with many riches, vast lands and precious resources, but our greatest blessing has been the bravery of our men and women who have served in uniform and defended the freedoms we hold dear. Our country is truly a safer, stronger and more prosperous nation because of their sacrifices. And the world is a safer place because of them.
"May God bless you, May God bless our volunteers in uniform, and may God always bless the United States of America."
U.S. Rep. Ander Crenshaw, R-Jacksonville
"Americas greatness is drawn from the blood and sacrifice of the brave servicemen and women who have gone before us, defending our freedom. Valiant soldiers all, they stand at the forefront of our thoughts on Memorial Day.
"The Veterans Wall ceremony in downtown Jacksonville and the wreath-laying service at the Jacksonville National Cemetery are moving tributes that provide a welcome opportunity to reflect on the contributions of our veterans and, most importantly, to say thank you.
"At both, I will join in paying my respects to fallen patriots and underscoring the heroism of those who continue to fight for our liberty 24-hours-a-day around the globe. Past or present, their service should never be taken for granted.
"From its defense installations that anchor our national security, to the servicemen and women and their families who live here, to the service organizations who support our armed forces, the First Coasts strong military tradition commands respect.
"On Memorial Day and all days, we provide that salute. We remember all who have made the region a focal point of patriotism at its finest. And, we say thank you for your contributions to our great nation -- you will never be forgotten."
