Memorial Day is a time to remember the valiant efforts of the brave Americans who put their country before themselves and who gave their lives so that we might remain free. It is also a day to celebrate everything they fought and died to protect.

I will be paying tribute to fallen service personnel at several Memorial Day events planned throughout Southwest Michigan.

On the Thursday before Memorial Day, I will proudly be participating in a Senate tradition of honoring the brave Michigan men and women of the armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to America.

I invite local veterans service organizations to post their colors at the 21st Annual Senate Memorial Day Service, which will be held on Thursday, May 21 at 10 a.m. in the Michigan Capitol.

During the ceremony, senators will honor soldiers from their districts who died during the past 12 months. Families who lost loved ones will also be recognized.

This is an opportunity for veterans organizations to join those from across Michigan in honoring our fallen heroes. Posts are welcome to bring up to three flag bearers to display their colors on the Senate floor during the service. Please note that flag bearers will be standing for the duration of the ceremony, which will last approximately one hour.

Local veterans groups interested in participating in the ceremony should contact my office by May 7. My office can be reached at (517) 373-6960 or by sending an email to senjproos@senate.michigan.gov.

Our nation remains strong today because of the men and women who gave their lives for our freedom. It is a debt we can never repay, but one that we can sincerely honor.

 

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents Southwest Michigan.