GOP senator hails veterans in weekly address

Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) used the GOP’s weekly address on Saturday to honor veterans at the start of the Memorial Day weekend.

{mosads}“While Memorial Day is a day to honor our fallen heroes, I would also like to say a few words about our veterans whose sacrifices must never be forgotten,” she said. “From those who responded after the shocking attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, to those sent around the globe after the tragic events of September 11 2001, we honor them.”

Ernst hailed legislation that President Obama signed into law last week to allow Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) from World War II to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

“You see, during World War II, these bold, revolutionary women flew non-combat service missions for the Army Airforce to free up their male counterparts for combat duty overseas,” she said. 

“The WASP willingly put their lives on the line for this country during a time of war. This work wasn’t easy and in fact, 38 WASP died in service to our great nation, such as Beverly Moses, who was born in Des Moines, and Gleanna Roberts, who grew up near Iowa City.”

“These women served our nation with great honor – and put their lives on the line,” Ernst added.

The Iowa senator also noted that Congress’ work on annual defense and appropriations bills, saying, “These measures will provide some level of certainty to our brave service members now serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and in other places around the world.”

“As Memorial Day approaches, let us pause and remember all of the men and women who have given their lives so we can be free,” she continued. “Let’s pause and honor the families of the fallen who have also given so much. On Memorial Day — and every day — let us give thanks for these outstanding heroes. They serve as a testimony to the character of America.”