guy is saying, i am here to tell you about the place that really knows how to make the years. germany. [laughter] we will now begin on behalf of the vietnam veterans memorial fund and national park service. this is our annual ceremony. at this point in time, we would like to ask you to stand as the military district of washington armed services color guard presents the callers -- colors. please remain standing until the colors are retired.

[captioning performed by national captioning institute] all, say can you see, who has brought stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight for the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming

glaree rockets' red the bombs bursting in air days proves for the night that our flag was still there oh, say does that star spangled banner yet wave or the land of the three and the home of the brave ♪ >> hear, hear. let's give him a great hand for that. here to lead us in the pledge of allegiance is edward times.

a veteran of the battle of ia drang. he will be laying a wreath today. at this time, we can all say the pledge of allegiance. >> i pledge allegiance to the fled of the united states of america, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under god, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. amen.

>> god bless america, god bless our troops on the battlefield of war today, and all of our veterans, and all of the veterans that died. god bless america. >> thank you very much. you might -- you may be seated at this time. the army lt. colonel, the deputy chaplain will lead us in prayer at this time.

>> please join me in prayer. gracious god, in whom we live and move and have our being, we recognize that freedom is not the substance of, but rather the context for of lives lived abundantly an excellent way. we give thanks for the freedom we, in this nation, in july, but which we, because of the business of our lives are prone to take for granted. we pause with knowledge that if freedom is not free. we are gathered in places all over our land this veterans day, at cemeteries, monuments, and that'll feed -- battlefields, and here at this wall. we gathered to remember with deep gratitude those who have given their full devotion in armed conflict to the preservation of our of liberty. we remember especially those who served so bravely and

sacrificial the in a faraway land called vietnam. as friends, families, and those who shared foxholes' spend time in remember is, may your presence in member of -- in member this community. the strength and your presence to those that are in harm right now, that they may serve ponderously and courageously. make each one of us wise stewards of the freedom that has been gained and preserved for us. amen. >> thank you. for nearly 30 years, the vietnam veterans memorial fund has been proud to work hand-in- hand with the national parks service to ensure that this site, one of the most visited places in washington, continues to offer visitors a very healing and positive experience during their visit. we are partnering with them now to create the education center at the vietnam veterans

memorial, which will be built across the street. this will work in synergy with the memorial itself, to teach visitors about the values of individuals who served in all of america's wars, particularly the vietnam war. we will have the photographs of the casualties in there, and we now are part of a nationwide program with 12, almost 14,000 for a grass. we need all of the photographs of the casualties. come to our web site. find out how to submit a photograph. this would be a great moving tribute for america's the veterans. we have enjoyed working with the national parks service to see it come -- become a reality. we are working on significance maintenance problems --

projects. in july, we agree -- completed a six-week restoration of a statue. it cost a lot of money to do that. we had to get the best people available to restore, and it actually looks as good as it did when it was new. i want to thank each and everyone of you, because we had to get the money from the people, and the donors, and many of you gave donations to help them along. the other thing we had to do was two years ago. this was literally the worst grass on the national mall. i have never seen anything as bad as that. we got to work on it. we paid contractors to come in here. we got the sprinklers working again. we did some double-seeding. it cost us a lot of money. you help us raise that. it is greatly appreciated. it is an honor to work with the national parks service to take

care of vietnam's veterans memorial bridge of the vietnam veterans memorial. we did this memorial to the national park service in 1984. secretary ken salazar was actually going to speak with us today, but he was called away on urgent government business. here to represent the park service is maria burks, the acting superintendent of the national mall memorial parks. she has done everything in her career, including running ellis island and the statue of liberty -- very large complicated parts with a lot of moving parts and outside organizations. the taxpayers are lucky to have people like her. at this time, maria, which would like to have you say a few words. -- we would like to have you say a few words. [applause] >> thank you, jan scruggs, for

that generous introduction. good afternoon, everyone. distinguished guests, distinguished speakers, vietnam veterans, ladies and gentlemen, i am a real bricks, the acting superintendent, and i am representing secretary ken salazar. he very much wanted to be here today. not being able to come was a real disappointment to him. it has been a real gift for me. i remember vividly the first time i saw this memorial, and i remember walking down the wall, looking at the names, thinking about the stories behind those names, the meaning of the fact that they were on the wall, and it was transformed it for me. that experience stuck with me until this day, and i am just delighted to be here. i like to honor and recognize the memorial fund and jan scruggs, frankly, for building a

memorial, and for their ongoing work in partnership with us to help all visitors come, understand, and appreciate the moral, and what it means to them personally. -- the memorial, and what it means to them personally. the memorial creates -- contains 58,000, to let 78 names of the servicemen and women who died in vietnam, and those who remain missing in action. it is a special place, where everyone can come together and remember and honor those who served, and those who are still serving today. the memorial consists of four parts. for those of you that have not visited the other three parts, there is the wall, there is the in memory plaque, and very special, the vietnam the women's memorial. each element is different, and

each one is a touchstone for many people here today. i can guarantee you, it is also bad for people who come here every year. we are probably biased, but we do think that the national parks are wonderful places to seek solace and inspiration. many of our parks hold important monuments and memorials. a visiting them can give us all a way to recognize those who served and continue to serve our great nation, and remind all americans of the heritage we hold in common. for that reason, the national park service is waiting seized in honor our veterans, serviceman, and service within. we hope you will come see us. i know that there are many veterans in the audience today, some who served in viet nam, some who served, or are

currently serving in other conflicts or wars around the globe. as an american, i think you for your selfless service to our country. i stand here in admiration of your sacrifice and your courage. so, thank you, and may god bless america. [applause] >> we always have a lot of very interesting people here. we have a veteran of world war one. -- world war ii -- rev. elbert, could you stand-up? he was in world war two, and vietnam with the u.s. chaplain's service, and if you ever get an opportunity to come to the shiloh baptist church, from time to time you can hear him say a few words. we also have the veterans of

the ia drang valley. are you all sitting in that section? could you stand up, for a minute? [applause] >> a bunch of them. yes. remember, that was the big battle -- there was a movie, in which then north vietnamese wanted to test our abilities to respond to their military tactics. it was quite a mess. anyway, at this time, i am pleased to introduce to you when of the great military leaders, really in modern history, general barry mccaffrey. he served with great distinction in the vietnam trade he is a graduate of the u.s. military academy at west point. he won more than a few purpleheart. he was variously -- he was a very seriously wounded.

he has won every medal you could imagine. he was an active combat leader, a four-star general, but retirement has never really worked for general mccaffrey. he is a commentator. he is chairman of the advisory board for the education center at the vietnam veterans memorial, and an expert on mexico, and many of the nation's and world's problems. he frequently gives lectures and also serves as an adjunct professor at the military academy. he shares -- he chairs our advisory board for the education center at the memorial, and we have some very distinguished military veterans and historians working with us to develop the exhibits from across the street for this facility. we are very happy to have him spear-heading the project, along

with the national park service, and we think general mccaffrey for his leadership. when invited to say a couple of words. -- we invite him to say a couple of words. [applause] >> thank you very much to you, john dick bove, peter holt, general colin powell, and others who have come together to build this underground education gentle. it will be across the street. we have 25 million. the momentum is gathering. we are enormously proud. we will link 58,000 of our fellow soldiers, marines, airmen, soldiers, when their birthday comes up, we will memorialize them in the education gentle. the next two years will be crucial. go online, and give us a hand. let me also take one second to say how pride -- proud i am. does company i was -- the

company i was privileged to serve with in the vietnam gets together. the first sergeant and i are still the old guys. i started at age 25. can i ask all -- can i ask them all to stand up? thank you for your service. [applause] >> my purpose and privilege is to it is everybody's marshall kym osley. the united states and australia are long-standing allies. we fought together in vietnam. many of the items left at the law reflect the service of these australian stock -- soldiers and airmen. kym osley now works of the embassy of australia, here in washington. he is a member of the royal australian air force. he's had a distinguished career, as you would imagine, which

included the director of the office center in the middle east. in that assignment, he directed a coalition air operations and combat operations over both iraq and afghanistan. he kept his appointment as the head of the australian defence staff, here in washingto of acac degrees, is a member of the order of australia, has been awarded a conspicuous service across -- cross. at the end of the day, the australians and the americans have fought together in every conflict since world war one. they have been tremendous allies. they have shed their blood with us. join me in welcoming speech welcoming air vice marshall, kym osley. -- air vice marshal kym osley.

[applause] >> and australian cannot resist collet -- responding to that call. thank you for that introduction. to all of our vietnam veterans, veterans of all war, and ladies and gentlemen, it is of great honor to be up here and to talk about a struggle contribution over the years. -- australia's contribution over the year. i was quite amused to see how many people had come across australians in the vietnam. i should ask the question, who has parted with the australians in vietnam? [laughter] >> i am surprised he is survived. [laughter] -- you survived. [laughter] >> ladies and gentlemen, a very warm good day from the

australian vietnam veterans. they have just finished their remembrance day, back in australia, and i assure you there are a couple of hangovers. they do remember just as fondly the french upset they made in vietnam. on a ridge in the french ships they made in vietnam. -- the french ships they made in vietnam. we call at remembrance day. after world war one, we started to call it remembrancer it. ostrow was a very hard by the number of casualties. -- australia was hit very hard by the number of casualties. we had 10% of our population killed or injured. 3% were killed. that is incredible decimation of our male population. if you are wondering why australians are so strong about remembrance, that is where it all began.

we had the highest ratio killed of any allied nation in world war one. if the same ratio was applied to the u.s., 4.5 young males would have been killed. it is not something we take pride in, but we do acknowledge, and we do say is the reason why we must keep remembering on remembrance day. vietnam is a long way away from the u.s., but there's another difference with australia. vietnam is in our backyard. while it appeared to be at a distance, for australia, where actually fighting for democracy in southeast asia, yet our region. for us, the war has a great meaning that goes well beyond just the statistics. thank you to all of the vietnam veterans for making democracy the rule of the day in our part of the world. we see why. -- we see why.

-- thank you. [applause] >> we had almost 60,000 australians serving over there. many of them were fighting on the ground, but many were flying overhead, either with the united states air force, where their own aircraft -- or their old aircraft. it was a very big deal to us. we have, unfortunately, 500 or more that did not come back. the remembrance of those people is part of the reason why it is very important that australia be involved in the vietnam veterans memorial fund, and in the education center that is being planned. there are a bunch of stories about veterans and need to be told -- that needs to be told.

a strike is keen to keep those memories alive for future generations. our recently reelected government has answered the call. we intend to donate 3 million u.s. dollars to the education center, here, in the u.s.. [applause] >> what we would like is when the australian veterans come across here, they can stand side-by-side again with their vietnam veterans from the u.s., and see their pictures of their killed, alongside those of the u.s.. [applause] >> ladies and gentlemen, to live again for allowing an australian, along with from home, to say a couple of words, and see why, in particular, to our vietnam veterans. thank you. [applause] >> we appreciate the inspiring words.

not long after the memorial was built, australian veterans began coming here from australia, obviously, and some of them left hats, boomerangs, and things like that. these are the sort of things we can display in the education center across the street. it is an extremely generous contribution and it is greatly appreciated. at this time, i would like to introduce the fellow vietnam veteran diane carlson evans, whose vision, hard work, and determination brought about the vietnam women's memorial, which is behind you. ladies and gentlemen, diane carlson evans. >> thank you very much. good to see you. thank you, jam. since air vice marshal kym osley

is here, 19 australian nursing sisters who served in vietnam came here in 1993 to stand beside their sisters -- american sisters, who had served in vietnam. they were so appreciated and so welcomed. we went to the australian embassy. the award, care, and concern that was there because we, vietnam's nurses cared for the australians. i was stationed at the evacuation hospital on the south china sea. the australian hospital -- i did not think the australians realize there would be so many in -- injured and wounded. we got these soldiers into our hospital, and one worth out of their mouth, and we knew where

they were from. i did not care how sick they were, how wounded they were, they have a sense of humor, and they wanted a cold beer. and, they wanted everyone of us american nurses to go down to the beach, and party with them when they got out of the hospital. dell, australia. they were wonderful young men. i attended the 1994 dedication of their vietnam memorial, which is really powerful, profound, and beautiful. i found the one name, barbara black, who served in vietnam, their only nurse who died as a result of the war. her name is on the wall at the war memorial, hatched in bronze. as war phases -- phase from memory, so did the sacrifices of those who fought at. on veteran's day we grasp the

significance of the millions of men and women who served before us, with us, and the generation returning home today. we try to remember each of these generations. wartime and peacetime, and comprehend their achievements, and appreciate the enormity of their contributions to our country. the vietnam generation leaves a memorial as a testament to the american spirit. this memorial galvanized a nation. to honor those moments of sacrifice, hours of hardship, days of courage, and years of service of men and women no different than the millions before them up or after them, or today -- the vietnam women's memorial leaves its legacy of women veterans' stories now being written into american

consciousness. these stories shined a light on the names etched here, and on the fis -- thousands of those who survived. they provide a glimpse into a historical experience. "i care for each, as though my brother. no time for cry, must tend to another, and another. time has passed, and i still recall, your courage, your struggle, and your fault. rest in peace, your war now done, how brief your life, as the setting sun." that was written in 1969, south china sea. today, i am honored to introduce one of the veterans of the memorial represents -- a

woman who joined the army as a student nurse in 1969, and his brother's life was as brief as the setting sun. he had been killed in vietnam in 1966. three years later, she received her orders to study nursing at walter reed mont -- walter reed army medical center. she graduated in 1973, at which time she was commissioned into the army nurse corps, and went on to serve for 23 years. currently an employee of the health care organization, she is dedicated to the quality care and safety of patients, just as she had been in her career as an army nurse. today, she lives in the montana, and works for the joint commission as a nurse serve there. please welcome lieutenant

colonel connie schultz. [applause] >> general barry mccaffrey, air vice marshal kym osley, honored guests, friends, and most importantly, veterans, although i have visited this memorial many times in the past, my attention is normally to the names on the wall. i never thought of the times that i would ever be standing here giving thanks to america's veterans. before i go on, there is a group of people i need to recognize. my brother was a member of the 173rd airborne brigade. i learned that are having their union. i would like them all to please rise, so we can recognize them. where are you? [applause]

>> i want to thank diane for giving me this opportunity, as soon as i get my notes back. sorry. >> she might have to wait. >> to share -- to share the significant tribute. march 16, 1966, changed my life forever. it was on that day my family was notified of the death of my brother, who was a member of the hundred 73rd airborne. he was killed in action and subsequently awarded the silver star for heroism. it had been just over three weeks that he had said goodbye to us, he was off to war. he left just days after the burial of a young marine, friend, and actually eventually became my brother-in-law, as he

gave his life for his country. my mother became a gold star mother with his death. at 91, her wish had been to be here today one more time to honor her son. she sends her blessings, but does not feel she is up to the trip. i wish to dedicate this moment in time to her. as i prepared for this day, i found myself reflecting on my brothers, and how their deaths impacted my life and my decision to serve in the military. as a high-school student, i was determined to serve. my life-long dream was to be a nurse. why not the honors in the army or the military? on september 9, 1969, i made that commitment to serve, as item listed in the army has a selectee to attend a nursing

program. my role models at that time became those army nurses who had served in vietnam that were not teaching me how to become one of them. i graduated from nursing school in june of 1973, at which time i was commissioned in the army nurse corps. it was too late. i never got the chance to serve in that war. in january of 1973, the cease- fire agreement was signed. as a student at walter reed army medical center, and as an army nurse in subsequent wars, i did serve those who have been to war, when the save the hurt, emotionally, and physically, seen on those veterans. as an army nurse i dedicated my career to the model to preserve the fighting strength. my career as an army nurse was

spent training for war, but most importantly, working to keep the fighting strength held the. -- healthy, alongside those nurses and has served in vietnam. if i cared for those said not only were serving, but those who had served in wars, and those who serve in support of those who went to war. being a veteran is not only about dying for our country, or serving in a war-torn land. the value of a veteran should not be measured where we serve, but how. there will always be eras, measures of time significant to military events that we celebrate as veterans -- the vietnam war, the cold war, the gulf war, iraq, and afghanistan. the vietnam era is very significant to the vietnam women's memorial, four insiders

all women who served their country during the vietnam war. -- 48 honors all women who serve their country during the vietnam war. i stand here today, representing the vietnam era veterans, and more specifically a woman. i was one of 265 thousand women who served karen the vietnam war. i stand here today to honor all of the 1.8 million women who have served their country, and those who continue to serve. women comprise approximately 20% of today's military, active-duty and reserve, and will eventually join the roles of the u.s. minutes -- military veterans. the woman veteran looks very different from when i joined the army. roles and responsibilities have been opened up to increase the capabilities of women who served. the vietnam women's memorial is an example of the significance

of memorials and monuments that we see today. it is there, not only to honor and remember, but also to educate our future generations, and to continue to be an inspiration to many women serving today. the vietnam memorial, which the vietnam women's memorial is a part of, speaks not only for the dead, but also for the living, and all of those who served during the turbulent times. for my husband and i, our military service is in a sense, a memorial. joining the service, in memory of our brothers, who did give the ultimate sacrifice during the vietnam war. our memories of them, and our conviction to serve our country, honorably. us through our military service. i stand here today to honor all of you who have searched, and

continue to serve as we are what involved in a war bigger than the vietnam war. during my travels, i have had the honor of seen the medical care of the veterans firsthand, through visits to veterans' hospitals, army, navy -- navy, and air force hospitals. i have had the honor to visit with and shake the hands of those who have served in some capacity. it never failed to bring a tear, or of a lump in my throat as i see the pride in those veterans who say to me "we were just doing our job." we always carry on our lives rarely considering what it means to be a veteran. it is an honorable title that we carry each and every day. it is a title to be celebrated, and a role that begs us to embrace all of the new veterans.

today is a day in celebration of the new veterans, a day to be recognized, and to be recognized for those of you in attendance that are not veterans, please take a moment to reflect on what veterans mean to you. how important this reflection is to our veterans. never missed a chance to sink a veteran. i would like all -- to sank a veteran. i would like all of the veterans to stand in my salute to you. would you please stand? [applause] >> thank you, good luck, and godspeed. >> thank you, for those inspiring words. we have also noted that we have some people here on active duty. we would like for them to wav, so we can point them out for everyone. [applause]

>> we also have some military veterans from iraq and afghanistan, if you could stand up here. [applause] >> you are always welcome here. i very much assist the iraq, afghan veterans group, and ultimately, when the time is right for their memorial, i will be one of their advisers, i'm sure. we want to thank the many people who are part of the sons and daughters in touch, the american legion, amvets, disabled american veterans, the military order of the purple heart, noncommissioned officers, paralyzed veterans, rolling thunder, the vfw veterans of america, as well as the museum

resources center, which houses some of the 150,000 items that have been left at the vietnam's -- vietnam veterans memorial. three times as many items as there are names. it is quite a sociological phenomenon. this will be part of the education center across the street. we also want to say thank you to members of our corporate counsel. that includes to the bishop, who is joining us today, as well as our board members. welcome as well to the students of the ego academy -- that eagle academy, who are with us today. where are you all? [applause]

>> it is like high-school? middle school? ok. thank you for coming. we want to thank the veterans advisory board. they have passed out the american flags that you have. here is a great thing that is going to happen right now because kera o'bryon, a beautiful young lady, who is a great singer, and is a professional entertainer, was able to carve some time out of her busy schedule, and she is going to sing for us. [applause] ♪ o beautiful for spacious skies for amber waves of grain

for purple mountain majesties above the fruited plain america, america god shed his grace on thee and crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea o beautiful for pilgrim feet

seemed beyond the year undimmed by human tears america america died shed his grace on the -- god shed his grace on the end crown thy good with brotherhood from sea, to the shining sea sing with me o beautiful for spacious skies

for amber waves of grain for purple mountain majesties above the fruited plain america, america died shed his grace on the crown by good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea ♪ [applause]

>> that was quite impressive, i must say. peter holt was going to be here to introduce our next speaker. he is a very dynamic the and now a veteran, who owns a team called the san antonio spurs, but could not make it did he get tied up in business. instead of peter, will have the chairman of the board of the vietnam veterans memorial fund board of directors. he will do the introduction. he served with the navy in vietnam, and now practices law in washington, d.c., and now, washington attorneys are not on the endangered list. they are all over the place. he is one of the better ones.

[applause] >> thank you. i am very proud to introduce the keynote speaker this afternoon. he is a native of the area, michael heisle was born in washington, and grew up in alexandria, virginia, just across the river. he graduated with a bachelor's degree from georgetown university, where he subsequently served on the board of directors, regions, and visitors for over 20 years. in 1970 years, he founded the heico companies, which is based in chicago, and owns and operates approximately 40 businesses worldwide in a diverse set of industries. he serves as chief executive officer of several of the company's subsidiaries. he is also the majority owner of the nba memphis grizzlies. i am glad peter was not here.

we would have two nba owners fighting each other. he has served on the board of offended -- foundation that is pledged to million dollars to the wall. [applause] >> mr. michael heisle has been deeply touched by the vietnam war kamal in ways i know he will explain. he and his wife have devoted his personal time and resources to honoring members of our community. we are very pleased to have michael nicely here with us today. [applause] -- michael heisle is here with us today. [applause] >> thank you. i like to say this is a special day for may 10 and giving me a chance to do something i have wanted to do for many, many years, and that is to thank the

veterans personally for all you have done. you have kept a safe, free, and with the benefits we get from this wonderful country. today is a very special day set aside to honor a very special group of people. only a small percentage of our nation's citizens served in the armed forces. they protect the freedoms that we all enjoy. on this day, we turn our attention to the selfless individuals and say see why. it takes an exceptional person to serve in the armed forces. as a service member, you must put your own needs second to those of your country, you must display courage and honor in a situation fraught with danger. you must stand as an example of what is best in the united

states for people around the world, and you must always do what is right, even when also what is right is also very, very dangerous. not everyone is cut out for this life, but we all benefit from the forts of those extraordinary individuals who willingly put on the uniform of the united states army, navy, air force, marines, and coast guard. to all of them, past and present, i send out my heart fell to thanks. i cannot think about service members without thinking about my good friend rocky versace. we were boys growing up together near alexandria, virginia. although our lives took on diverse paths, we remain close to the years.

we met when we could, and broke when we were apart. -- wrote when we were apart. rocky went to west point and serbian to do both terms of vietnam to on the last night of his leave, rocky dined with my wife and i in our small home in dallas injured, virginia. at dinner, we talked about the future, hopes, and dreams. he told us that after the tour was over, he was planning to leave the service. he wanted to become a priest, and stay in vietnam to work at an orphanage that he had helped build and support while he was in that war-torn country. he deeply loved the children of vietnam, and wanted to assist them. if i give him asylum process -- promised to help him in that

dream. i never saw him again. months later, we learned that he had been wounded and captured. over the next several years, my wife and i prayed for his release, and occasionally heard vague reports that he was being marched from village to village for propaganda purposes. our worst fear was realize when we learned he had been executed on september 26, 1965. i think i always knew it would and that way for rocky. when we learned of his capture, i told my wife "i fear we will never see rocky again." rocky has a spirit that does not compromise. he will not bend, nor will he break. they will just have to kill him. later, we heard stories from the

men he had been with in captivity, about rocky and his courage, his optimism and his -- and the inability of the vietcong to break him. he was the commanding officer, or the ranking officer, and the man that was subject to a lot of the torture and mistreatment to try to break him in front of his men. the last time he was put into solitary confinement finally, put in a bamboo cage, slightly bigger than himself, and left away from his men, never to see them again. when they were walking out, being moved to another location, they heard coming through the trees, the sound of a man singing "god bless america."

that example serves as an inspiration to those many in captivity with him. i mourn my friend to this day, and also celebrate all of the things about him that made him special -- his belief in god was strong. his love of america and his commitment to west point hotel code gave him the -- west thoses code gave him qualities. when i think of the best men and women in uniform, i think of rocky, and how willingly he put aside his own needs to assert his country. i think of his loyalty to others, his courage, his integrity, and his dedication to duty, and his deep sense of honor. i know that these values are replicated in the veterans and service members are around the globe, and i am proud of every single one of you.

today, you may have heard about the education center being built across the street, near the lincoln memorial, to honor all of those who served and tell the stories of those that did not come back from vietnam. we can learn so much from the stories of these extraordinary people. in addition to the tales of bravery and honor, we can learn about the person behind uniform. my friend rocky was an army captain, a prisoner of war, a medal of honor recipient, but he was more than that. he was a boyhood friend, a gentle soul who loved children, a big brother who helped raise his siblings. seeing his name on the granite wall behind me, or reading his medal of honor citation fills me with pride for my friends achievement. there is more to the story. in the educational center, we

can give visitors a chance and a glimpse of the promise that went unfulfilled in the lives of those individuals that did not come home from the war. today, as i look out on the crowd, i see so many of you who have served in iraq, afghanistan, the gulf war, vietnam, korea, and world war ii. in every generation, there have been those who put on a uniform, serve their country, then come home and work to make america a better place. i know it is a huge debt to repay, but to our men and women in uniform, please know that today, and every day, we are aware of what you do for our country. we know there are personal costs. we know that the blessings we enjoy are safeguarded by your unselfish and tireless effort,

and we might say to you, thank you, thank you, thank you. [applause] >> very impressive. [applause] >> i just want to point out that the person he was talking about, rocky, was also a graduate of the u.s. military academy, and we have some distinguished graduates with us here today, including general mike conrad. general conrad brought to us the color guard from the 82nd airborne, and the first calvary division. let's give a big hand to the color guard. [applause]

>> one of our close advisers is with us today, who is the ceo of a major corporation. at this time, we will begin reiss lane, and while the wreaths are laid at the wall, chris jackson will perform "amazing grace. the name of his father and law is actually -- father-in-law, is actually in grade on the wall -- engraved on the wall. once these are actually placed at the memorial, we will be able to listen to taps.

♪ >> so, department of interior, national parks service, vietnam's better memorial fund, vietnam -- veterans memorial fund, a vietnam women's memorial foundation, a goldstar mothers are coming down, followed by the gold star wives of america, sons of daughters in touch, as well are starting to walk right now. they are followed on the other side by the 82nd airborne division. take a look at some of these wreaths. they are kind of neat. it is the first cavalry division. that is the patch they wear on their uniform. the american legion is here.

amvets, as well. we move forward. disabled american veterans, military order of the purple heart -- they have the cool breeze. paralyzed veterans of america placing a wreath. the f.w. of the united states. veterans of foreign wars have given us $1 million for the education gentle. -- education center. vietnam veterans of america is here. we will get it done, eventually, and we also have the fourth infantry division, searchlights, case on veterans are actually here today, lining up. it is quite a beautiful photograph. actually, when i will do after the ceremony is get these guys to stand in place for you who

would like to take a photograph. it is a nice thing to take home. the 199 flight infantry is here. i was with them and wounded many years ago. the military veterans motorcycle club is here. if we want to thank them and harley-davidson for all the help they have given us. operation freedom bird, the guys >> the advisory board for horizon and the fifth cavalry. they are moving for a reported 25th infantry division and u.s. mv-mce, the 27th infantry will towns are moving into position as we speak and the ninth infantry division is hair. the 101st airborne would never miss a great opportunity like

this to have a great wreath. the 82nd chapter. these are the wreaths that have been placed at the memorial. at this time, please stand as you are for the playing of 'taps,' ♪ [taps] ♪ [taps] ♪ [taps] ♪

[taps] ♪ >> ok, well, you can't just remained seated if you like. mill around a little bit until the park police honor guard has left the walkway area they are sort of moving in position. i know a lot of you with cell phones and lyall cameras nowadays, you like to take that big shot and here is a really nice picture that you can send back to your relatives back,. there are some really beautiful wreaths and the conditions are perfect that concludes today ceremony. thank you for coming. [applause]

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[no audio] >> learn more about veterans day and the men and women who served in the military with the cspan video library. oral histories, offers on the nation's wars, and veterans day commemorations through the years, all searchable and freight on your computer any time. >> this weekend, cspan 3 american history tv visit the eleanor roosevelt papers project. to long have the longest serving first lady use the media to communicate her ideals. we will see how very different thinking american and british leaders have worked together to defeat the nazis and a conference marking the 150th anniversary of the civil war on the experience of enslaved and

three african-americans during the war. live saturday november 20, a daylong symposium on the civil war from the national archives as prominent historian discuss the domestic and international impact on the war. american history tv all weekend, every weekend on cspan 3. book-tv this weekend, in one of his first live tv appearances since publication, the 43rd president george w. bush on his memoir, "a decision point." he discusses his personal life live from miami dade palace sunday at 4:00 p.m. eastern on c-span 2. >> the counting continues in the alaska senate race. senator lisa murkowski ran as a right in candidate in after losing the primary to joe miller. but his past several thousand more ballots for write-in candidates than they did for mr.

miller. an early tally shows senator murkowski winning 70%. another few ballots were counted but contested for the other candidate in the three-way race is democratic scott mcadams and he has conceded. the senate returns to session next monday. on tuesday, democrats and republicans will meet in separate locations to elect their leaders for the next two years. during a lame-duck session, senators may consider legislation dealing with alternative fuel cars, wage equality, and modernizing the food and drug demonstration. president obama is in south korea today on the third stop of a four-country visit to asia. he is seeking greater asked -- access for american goods per yesterday he addressed american soldiers and talked about the 37,000 americans killed during the korean war, our security

alliance with south korea, and what he has described as the aggression and provocation of north korea. this is about 20 minutes. >> a few other people want to make mention of -- we are so proud and want to thank our outstanding representatives here in the republic of korea. ambassador kathleen stevens and in general cjhhipo sharp, give them a big round of applause. [applause] a former colleague of mine in the illinois state senate who is now a congressman from the great

state of illinois, peter roscom is here with us so give them a big round of applause. where is he? [applause] there he is up there. and our great friend and ally from the republic of korea, general young pri give him a big round of applause. [applause] a few other people i want to give thanks to -- lieutenant general john johnson. [applause] command sergeant major robert wizenread. [laughter] [applause] we are so proud to have with us u.s. and republic of korea veterans of the korean war who are here and we are greatly honored by your presence. [applause]

i want to make special mention of one of them, congressional medal of honor recipient, hector camparana, jr, give him a round of applause. [applause] it is an enormous honor to be here. as president of the united states, i have no greater privilege than serving as commander in chief of the finest military that the world has ever known. [applause] i will miss the veterans day.

there is no place i would rather be than right here with u.s. forces in korea. we have the eighth army in the house. [applause] we've got members of the seventh air force. [applause] we've got u.s. navy forces, korea. [applause] we've got just about every marine and south korea here today. [applause] [laughter] happy birthday, marines, by the way. [applause] e've got a whole lot of dod civilians, too. we are very proud of you. [applause] it is good to see some spouses and family members in the audience. you bear the burden of your loved ones service in ways that are often immeasurable. an empty chair at the dinner table, or another holiday where mom and dad are some place far

away. i just wanted to know that this nation recognizes the sacrifices of all families as well. we are grateful for your service as well. on this day, we honor every man and woman who has ever worn the uniform of the united states of america. we salute fallen heroes and keep in our prayers those who are still in harm's way. like the men and women serving in iraq and afghanistan. we recall acts of uncommon bravery and selflessness but we also remember that honoring is more thanrve the words we say on veterans day or memorial day. it is about how we treat our veterans every single day of the year. by may to ensure they have the care they need and the benefits

that they have earned when they come home. it is about serving all of you as well as you have served the united states of america. this has been one of my highest priorities since taking office. that is why i asked for one of the largest increases in the va budget in the last 30 years. that is why we dramatically increased funding for veterans' health care. that is why we are improving care for wounded warriors, especially those with trump -- post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury. that is why we are working to eliminate the backlog at the va and reforming the entire process with electronic claims and medical records. that is why there are fewer homeless veterans on the streets than there were two years ago. that is why there are nearly 400,000 veterans and their families who are going to college because of the post-9/11 gi bill pe and.

i want all of you to know that when you come home, your country will be there for you. that is the commitment i made to you as commander in chief. that is a sacred trust between the united states of america and all could defend its ideals. the trust that has been forged in places far from our shores, from the beaches of europe to the jungles of vietnam, from the desert of iraq and the mountains of afghanistan, to the peninsula where we stand today. 60 years have come and gone since the communist army's first crossed the 38th parallel within three days, they captured seoul. by the end of the next month, they had driven the korean army all the way south to poo sang and from where things stood in the summer of 1950, it but did not appear that the republic of korea would survive much longer.

at the time, many americans have probably never heard of korea. it had only been five years since we had finished fighting the last war. we knew that if we allow the unprovoked invasion of a free nation that all free nations would be threatened. and so for the first time since its creation, the united nations voted to use the armed forces to repel the attack from north korea. on september 15, 1950, american forces landed inchon. the conditions they fought under were the worst that americans had ever experienced. the temperature reached more than 30 below zero in the winter. over 100 degrees in the summer. in many places, americans and our korean allies were outgunned and outman sometimes as by as much as 20-one. at one point, they were hit

with 24,000 artillery shells per day. by the end, the fighting devolved into trench warfare, waged on hands and knees in the middle of the night. and yet, our soldiers fought on. nearly 37,000 americans would give their lives in korea, 37,000. after three years of fighting, our forces finally succeeded in driving the invading armies back over the 38th parallel. one or store historian says that while he believes korea was the greatest of all trials for american troops,, their performance was nothing short of miraculous. the many men responsible for this powerful were only teenagers. others had just finished fighting in the second world war. most would go on to raise their families and live out their

lives. 62 veterans of the korean war have returned to be with us here today. [applause] gentlemen, we are -- honored by your presence and grateful for your service. the world is better off because of what you did here and for those who can, i would ask that, again, you receive the thanks of a grateful nation. they are all standing now. it looks like they are doing great [laughter] [applause] please give them a big round of applause. [applause]

i also want to recognize the korean soldiers who battled side by side with our own. these men fought bravely and sacrificed greatly for their country and some of them have joined us here as well. thank you, friends. [applause] [korean] we got together. [applause] the veterans who have traveled here today saw battle at the inchon landing and poo son perimeter and survive the

bloodshed of heartbreak ridge. at one point in that battle, the enemy tossed a grenade into a trance were multiple marines lay wounded. that is where private hector caparata and into that trench, picked up that craig, and threw it back. it detonated in his hand and severely injured his arm. but because of what he did, private caparata serve the lives of his fellow marines. he received the medal of honor for his heroism. he is here today. again, please give them -- [applause]

each of these men serve their nation with incredible courage and commitment. they left their homes and their families and risk their lives in what is often called the forgotten war. today, we all want you to know this --. we -- we remember your courage, we remember your sacrifice, and the legacy of your service lives on in a free and prosperous republic of korea. real change comes slowly. many people don't live to see the difference they have made in the lives of others. but for the men and women who have served on this peninsula, all you have to do is look around. whether you are a veteran who

landed in 1950 or one of the troops today, the security you provided has made possible one of the great success stories of our time. there are koreans who can still remember when this country was little more than rice paddies and villages that would flood during monsoon season not two generations later, highways and skyscrapers line -- line the horizon of what is the most prosperous, fastest growing democracies in all of the world. that progress has transformed the lives of millions of people. you should know that one of these people is a man who went from grinding proverb -- poverty to the presidency of this country. when i visited last year, i had lunch with president lee who i will be seen later today and he shared with me this story of what was like growing up poor as a child in korea. he said," i hope the american

people understand how grateful we are for what you have done because we would not be this strong prosperous nation we are worried not for the sacrifices made by the men and women of the united states military." that is from the president of this country. because the korean war ended where it began geographically, some ended up using the phrase die for a tie to describe the sacrifices. as we look around in this thriving democracy and its grateful and hopeful citizens, one thing is clear -- this was no tie. this was victory. [applause] this was a victory then and is a victory today. 60 years later, a friendship that was forged in a war has become an alliance that has led to greater security and on told prosperity not only in the republic of korea but throughout asia. that is something that everyone here can be extraordinarily proud of.

it is also a reminder of what still lies on the other side of the 38th parallel. today, the korean peninsula provides the world's greatest contrast between a society that is open and a society that is closed. between a nation that is dynamic and growing and a government that would rather starve its people and change. it is a contrast that is so stark you can see it from space as the brilliant lights of seoul give way to the other darkness of the north. this is not an accident of history. this is the direct result of the path that has been taken by north korea. it is a path of confrontation and provocation, one that includes the pursuit of nuclear weapons and the attack on the cho nan last march. in t wake of this aggression, you should not be mistaken, the united states will not waver and our commitment to the security of the republic of korea.

we will not waver. [applause] of the alliance between our two nations has never been stronger and along with the rest of the world, we made it clear that the north koreans pursuit of nuclear weapons will only lead to more isolation and less security for them. there is another patch available to north korea. if they choose to fulfill their international obligations and commitments to the international community, they will have the chance to offer their people lives of growing opportunity instead of crushing poverty. it is the future of greater respect and includes the prosperity available to citizens on this end of the korean peninsula. until that day comes, the world can take comfort in knowing that the men and women of the united states armed forces are standing

watch on freedoms frontier. in doing so, you carry on the legacy of service and sacrifice that we saw from those who landed here all those years ago. it is a legacy we honor and cherish on this veterans day. at the korean war memorial in washington, there's a plaque with an inscription that lists the number of americans that were killed, wounded, missing in action and held as prisoners of war. it says, "our nation honors her sons and daughters to enter the call to defend a country they never knew and the people and never met." a country they never knew and a people they never met. i know of no better words to capture the selflessness and generosity of every man or woman who has ever worn the uniform of the united states of america. at a time when it has never been more accepted to pursue narrow

self-interest and personal ambition, all of you here remind us that there are few things that are more fundamentally american than doing what we can to make a difference in the lives of others. that is why you always -- always be the best that america had to offer the world and that is why people who never met you, who never knew you will always be grateful to the friend and ally they found in the united states of america. thank you for your service, may god bless you, may god bless the united states of america, thank you. [applause] thank you. [applause] ♪

[captioning performed by national captioning institute] [captions copyright national cable satellite corp. 2010] >> president obama is trip includes talks with the south korean president and a meeting tomorrow with a group of 20 economic powers. the president held individual private meetings with chinese president and the german chancellor. the two-day-20 summit will wrap up tomorrow and the president then travels to japan and departs for the u.s. on sunday from japan. >> as the country march veterans day, learn more about the holiday and the men and women who served in the military. go to the cspan video library with corporate oral history, offers on e nation's worst, and veterans day commemorations through the years. all searchable and free on your computer any time. >> in an ideal world, the fact

that there were people shorting the mortgage market would have sent a signal. it looks like there are the smart investors that this will crashed and burned but they market was opaque enough that you could not see that the way you can see it in the stock market. because of the way these instruments work, you were basically not betting on real mortgages but rather you were in that -- investing on the casino version of a mortgage. >> in 2003, bethany mcclain wrote about and run. this week, she will talk about the current financial crisis in the future of the american economy. that is sunday night at 8:00 eastern on cspan's "q &a." >> congress returns to session this coming monday in a lame- duck session but members are expected to do some legislative work. members the door on federal spending for the next rest of the budget year and there is likely to be debate on bush administration task cuts that

expired january 1. live house coverage here on c- span and the senate is on c-span to breed a new congress starts in january with republicans in control of the house. boats are still being counted in seven u.s. house races. -- boats are still being counted in seven u.s. house races. york also has two house races undecided along with one in texas. ballots are still being counted in the alaska senate race. overall, republicans are leading in races for four of those seats than democrats are leaving in three. our veterans day coverage continues now with a discussion of veterans issues including upcoming legislation in congress. veterans employment opportunities, health care, and the new gi bill from this morning's "washington journal" this is about 45 minutes. >> washington journal continues. host: the executive director of the american legion, peter

gaytan, on veteran's day, to talk about veterans issues including veterans health-care and more. thanks for coming. how many veterans are there in america right now? how big is the veterans' health care service? guest: we are creating new veterans every day. as the numbers increase daily, our obligation as a nation increases to make sure we provide the benefits they have earned for their service. if you ask about the veterans affairs administration, what the american legion tries to do is ensure that the va is capable of moving its mission to american service members. meeting held care obligations if, the benefits obligations such as the gi bill. the american legion is the author of the original service members be adjustment act of 1944. we take great pride in that accomplishment. that adjustment act went on to

create what we know as the american middle class. it allowed veterans returning from the second world war to come back to transition easily into the civilian community and to find jobs, go to school, purchase a house, start a business, and provide for their families. our understanding of the country to assist veterans as they returned has helped our country to become strong as it is through our accomplishments in the middle class. the original g.i. bill has created thousands of doctors, teachers, engineers. we as a nation cannot ignore how beneficial that was to the establishment of our country in the 1950's. what the american legion would like to do is to balance the focus from our past accomplishments with what we understand is our obligation to this new era of veterans, this

new generation if we creat every day. we need to understand that there transition issues need to be addressed. that wes a nation have a continuing obligation to meet their needs. if we provide those services, we will insure that our country will remain strong. in showing our appreciation for the sacrifices made b the men and women, but showing that we don't forget our citizens who have chosen to wear the uniform and defend our freedom. host: 23 million u.s. veterans currtly. we are spending $124 million a year on veterans services, health care, etc. is it necessary for the va to be separate from the regular health care system? guest: there is a need. as a nation, when we ask a service member to go to a

foreign country, a young americans, to defend our freedom for someone -- or for soone's freedom in another country, we don't ask if they are ready to go. they pick up that pride of service and they go without question. we as a nation should not question the cost that it wod take us to provide for them when they return from combat. that caused its parts of war. the continuing cost of war is relative to what we provide for our veterans. your other questions about two health-care programs, i think so. the american public needs to understand that because of the va health-care system stand- alone and providing quality service, has improved considerably since the vietnam era. no longer less than adequate facilities. the va is cutting edge.

it's making progress not only for american veterans. it is responsible for recent developments that benefit the entire country. the initial articial heart, that was at the v.a. hospital. a lot of progress that you see in the medical environment of the nation comes from the department of veterans affairs medical facilities. we need to keep in mind that the va is a training ground for a large percentage of civilian practitioners, medical practitioners get their training through the department of veterans affairs. investment but the nation makes into the department benefits into our country. host: we have set aside the fourth line for veterans, especially iraq and afghanistan. do you want to hear from some veterans -- newer veterans.

when was the american legion formed and what's the history of veterans day? guest: the american legion was formed in 1919 by veterans who came back to realize there was strength in numbers. it wanted to make sure their brothers were taken care of, that they had stand together as veterans in this nation to make sure that their needs are not forgotten, to make sure the sacrifices they made our not forgotten, but they have assistance when they return to transition back to the civilian community. veterans day was initially on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month after world war roman one. world war ii. we cannot fget the sacrifices. calvin college said the nation that forbids its

defenders will be forgotten -- calvin coolidge. host: go on with your question. caller: i have been calling your show recently for the last -- since 1993 through 2005. i have been stating that the va has been tearing up my claim forms. each time i tell someone that, they never are concerned on who did that. it is a shame. host: timothy, are you having trouble with the va and would you like to know what the american legion's role in that is? them.e been to all of all of them seem be working

with this one conglomerate group that is, hey, the veteran is a liar and does not know wt he's talking about. it is set that they can come on television and pretend -- is sad that they can't pretend nothing is happening. host: do you work with veterans with issues with the va? guest: we do. the individus credited by the american legion to help people like timothy to help them develop their claims, to submit their claims to the department of veterans affairs so they can get the help they need, so they will have access to the gulf today deserve fans that they have earned. timothy, don't let this discourage you. what he's dealing with false a t on the need for improved outreach.

veterans' service organizations like the american legion need to provide stronger of reach to everyeneration of veterans, to let them know there's someone they can come to for free assistance in developing their health care claim. contact your department of the american legion in your state and ask for that assistance. the american legioevery day provides quality assistance. host: have you seen an increase in the need for mental health services and in mental health funding? guest: they are seeing an influx of mental health care needs it. that goes back to a lot of what mr. hunter explned previously about the landscape of war that the soldiers are dealing with as well as marines andavy personnel. the battlefield is a lot different now. in militarytrained specialty and be deployed. you are in a large combat zone,

an urban warfare environment, more talented being -- more prone to being exposed to combat. the american legion is taking a strong focus on traumatic brain injury and posttraumatic stress right now. we have created a committee of former military veterans, a prominent legionnaires. people with family members serving. we want to understand where we are putting our resources in the country to determine the increase in the conditions and we want to be part of the solution. we want to reduce the stigma of mental health problems. a lot of soldiers are afraid to toit it and they don't want affect their military career. we want them to ask for assistance. host: chip on the independent

line from nashville. ♪ i'm calling about a treatment for c.t.s. de that was developed at a va hospital in the 1990's that head and 85% success rate in resolving issues for the veterans that went for treatment that is not being used at the va today. so this is effectively a cure. i am a veteran. my father was a veteran during world war ii. my grandfather was a veteran. i meet soldiers as i travel extensively for business all the time. itas developed by a doctor named eugene canistandkeniston. host: why do you think it's not being used? caller: because it is a paradigm shift technology that was

developed at a time when biofeedback was at the basis of the treatment was not recognized by the medical communitys legitimate treatment. host: where should people go for more information? caller: i don't have a good answer for that. that is why i called when i heard there was someone from the american legion. i think the american legio could become the focal point to get this information out to veterans. i have a psychologist friend working afford good. he has begun a pilot program to bring back the treatment. -- a friend working at fort hood. i addressed the then-senator obama about the issue at an american legion post in chicago and number of years ago. nothing was ever done about it. someone needs to take a hold of this. these men and women with pete yazdi are suffering

unnecessarily in the face of there being a treatment of this quality. host: we have the point. guest: thanks for your advocacy. what youre saying is what the american legion is focusing on. i mentioned are and how a committee. we are setting the groundwork for that committee right now. we want to consider the other options that we may not be considering. those options that may not be traditional medical care of, but are showing improvement for lives of those veterans suffering from pts ansd tbi. the american legion is making progress in other areas that are not being considered, such as highbridge derek treatment. -- such asken -- hyperbaric treatment. we have spoken to veterans and

their families suffering. once they had hyperbaric treatment, their life improved for the better. the spouse's income i have my husband ba. if that is because the optional treatment was there for them to explore. we don't need to stay blinded. let's look at other options. we are dealing with a different era of veterans dealing with long deployments. i welcome the opportunity to discuss that with you more. you can trust that the american legion will provide outreach and locate those veterans and their families. host: robert from georgia, go- ahead. caer: i want to thank our armed forces and veterans today. the amount of gratitude that i have for them it's phenomenal.

i am disabled with brain injuries. i was i the program. if people decided to be an optimist rather than the victim. i believe that we with pts can be overachievers if we set our minds to it. as far as military and coming back, i have put forth a program called young enterprises community stabilization that addresses the issue of housing. in january of 2007 it. i tried to work with the government on that on the contractors and so forth. essentially, my heart is with

helping veterans to make the transition and into society. host: thank you. guest: your spirit is encouraging. i hope other veterans have heard you calling and will take the spirit you have and take it on themselves. to ask themselves. that is what the american legion focuses on. the american legion is right behind the secretary and his support of eliminating homeless veterans in the next five years. we have a program in the state of pennsylvania. ron has started a widespread homeless assistance program where we have transition homes for veterans while they're getting back on their feet, so they can find jobs and learn to care for themselves. there will be able to rebuild their lives. host: are all veterans and title

to healthcare from the v with no service? guest:no. the v-8 enrollment eligibility is based on priority groups. those priority groups are defined by the injury. the best way for me to not miss speak on eligibility is to visit the va website to determine eligibility requirements for different priority groups it. a large amount of veterans were shut out of eligibility because we don't have service-connected injuries, such as myself. that's not available to us. host: next call for peter gaytan, american director of the american legion. buffalo. caller: good morning, peter a good morning, peter.

i am a vietnam veteran. i am service-connected. i go to the inheritance center in missouri. -- harry truman center. i have been trying have been8 teeth pulled for year. i cannot afford it because i'm on disability, low-income. i cannot get them to do it. my primary doctor. i had mercury fillings when i was in basic training. that could make it service- connected right there. all i ask them to do was pull eight teeth. guest: sorry you are struggling

with dental care at the va. ghz talk to the veterans patient advocates at your va hospital. then talk to the american legion you can access dental care that you need. you know that in basic training that you received a dental care, so that should be relative to your eligibility to resubmitting your claim so you can get the treatment. host: has t american legion taken a position on "don't ask, don't tell"? guest: it has taken the opinion to wait for no decisis be made by any circuit court, but for the country to wait until the review of the court is done. for those individuals to assess that and provide their recommendation. we look forward to an outcome

for those individuals, to review that and make a decision that would benefit service members. the american legion post main concern is the safety of service members. host: what about the rightness or wrongness of a conflict? >> no. veteranss what the american legion is about and their families. so did the nation does not forget their obligation to the men and women serving in uniform and that we support active-duty troops and their families no matter what conflict. host: cheryl on the line. caller: thanks to all the veterans, especially my husband who flew aircraft carriers in vietnam. i lost the young man that i loved who died in vietnam in 1966. and myather, a veter of the

send world war. he died on october 19. i wrote to tammy a week before his death. he had dementia and a significant health care problem. we applied for a medical attention an entire year before he died. he wrote to her saying that it appears parts of the procedure was to delay and request over and over again for the same record until the veteran dies. the people that are most misused -- democratic and republican presidents have lied to the american people. those that paid the price are the young men and women who

served, and their families. no matter how many times duncan hunter wants to say how successful things were, if iraq did not have oil, if george bush did not want to take out saddam hussein because he wanted to be a w president and there's a new book called "family energys," and detainee's ta force -- and dick cheney's energy task force said getting that oil was number one on their list. it's a disservice to the young men and women serving our country. host: thanks for calling. guest: thanks for the sacrifice of your family members. you are upset with the delays in the claims processing.

that the va is taking too long to award clas to disabled veterans. the american legion is in full agreement with you. we should not have a process that forces veterans to wait a year or two. those veterans ha paid the price. they did not ask any questions whenhey went to serve their country. we should not delay their delivery of benefits. the american legion is working with secretary shinseki to develop a paperless claims process that will allow veterans to submit. ere have been accomplishments lately in agent orange disability. the va is looking at that as a pilot program to streamline the claims process to allow victims to receive benefits in a timely manner. that is so that individuals you mentioned do not die before they receive benefits. host: we are excited to welcome

the new treatment facility in french camp, calif. desperately necessary for our veterans. now, michael in michigan, go- ahead. caller: good morning. i am service-connected 100%. i volunteer for an elderly gentleman who is 92 years old, blind, world war ii. i've been taking into his appoinents. he spent time in the hospital in ann arbor, michigan at the vip. we --at the va. he's in a wheelchair, not really aware of what's happening to him. i reminded the doctor that he is very ill.

the doctor got very upset. he made a false reports to the social services at a hospital that i was a businessman and taking his money. -- that i was abusing this veteran and taking his money. it was a big investigation. his family and i got together and drew up power of attorney so that i could continue, because the charges were false. now i ha this hanging over my head. i feel like sebody reached out my guts. guest: it is disheartening. but it's heartening to hear that a veteran is helping another veteran in need. what you are doing is a testament to your obligation to the nation and to american veterans. thank you for that. i want to mention that whatyou

are doing in terms of delivery of service to your friend is something the american legion has focused on in the past. we started a program called i am not a number, years ago to find out how the cari is at your local va hospital. from that survey we developed the system worth saving. we have a field service staff from the american legion that goes to the vietnam hospitals. what we do is determine is their quality of care being met and is that karen being delivered in a timely manner? wepeak with caregivers and we speak with members of congress. we want to get staff to each individual facility to make sure they are meeting their obligations to american veterans. that's why the american legion provides outreach, to focus on

exactly where attention needs to be given in terms of va being able to provide carin a timely manner. host: the fact that w have homeless veterans is a sin. guest: contact your department of the american legion in your state. american legion takes homeless veterans as a major priority. at email is correct. it is a disgrace to the nation the anyone who swhas worn uniform >> as the country marks federal and state, learn more about the holiday, and the men and women who served in the military with

the c-span video library -- oral histories, authors, and veterans day activities to the years, all free, on your computer, any time. >> this weekend, we visit the eleanor roosevelt papers project to learn how the longest serving first lady used to the media. then, a conference marking the 150th anniversary of the civil war on the experience of enslaved and freed african- americans during the war. then, on november 20, a symposium on the civil war. american history television, all weekend, every weekend. booktv this weekend -- in one of his first live television appearances, the 43rd president,

george w. bush, and his memoir "decision points. all his life, from miami dade college sunday, and c-span2. >> alaska senator lisa murkowski's campaign says patti challenges are being made. after a second day of counting began, miller challenged of l" in "lisa"he " was in cursive handwriting. the democrat in the race has conceded. congress returns to session. it will be a lame duck session. they will elect leaders for next year. in the senate, democrats and republicans will meet separately

on tuesday. house republicans are meeting on wednesday, and democrats on thursday, to elect leaders. one of the many veterans they sara lee's took place today at the world war ii memorial. this is just over 45 minutes. >> he is an ap -- she is an ap correspondent, and award winning journalist, who was wounded in iraq. she had serious wounds, but is a great american, and does allow for great causes for our veterans and service members let's give her a warm welcome. -- members. let's give her a warm welcome. [applause]

[captions copyright national cable satellite corp. 2010] [captioning performed by national captioning institute] >> good morning, lads and gentlemen. it is my privilege to be your mistress of ceremonies today. i am here to honor, as we all are, all the veterans who served in the armed forces of the united states of america. especially those who fought in world war two, to keep our nation free, and set an example for all of the generations to come. but it is a gentleman, if you would please join me to welcome the official party for today's commemoration. first off, the commander of the added states army material command, and the first one in four-star general in the history of the armed services. [applause]

>> >>, we have. united states army retired and chairman of the national world war ii memorial. [applause] >> mr. john jarvis, director of the national park service. [applause] >> the director of the center for women veterans, department of veterans affairs. [applause] >> chaplain dawdled rutherford, -- dawdled rutherford. >> we would also like to recognize the deputy secretary of administration and the maritime secretary. these gentlemen will be

presenting a brief on behalf of the merchant mariners are served in our country. ladies and gentlemen, please remain standing for the represent it -- for the presentation of our callers, the plane of our national anthem. -- the colors, and the playing of our national anthem. try not to get blown away in the process. [laughter]

♪ ♪ ♪

♪ ♪ >> let's remember all of our wonderful veterans who proudly served our nation for over 235

years. remember this day, on the 11th hour of the aligned month, the nation and the war to end all wars. remember especially, the veterans of the second world war, and the woman who served who worked along the combat forces, to remember is of the greatest generation. we think them for the service and the stability they gave our nation. those in the support services who cared for and guided our soldiers. remember the veterans who served. for countless hours, may you bless them for their service and their commitment, and look with favor upon us who are gathered in your name this day, and they continue to bless all of our veterans and celebrate this day with us. this we ask and pray in your

holy name, amen. >> please be seated. lettuce and often, the co-host of today's ceremony digital is investment, the co-host of today's ceremony -- ladies and gentlemen, the co-host of today's ceremony is the director of the national park service, mr. john jarvis. >> good morning. this commemorates those who served in the greatest armed conflict the world has ever known, and represents not just of our and sacrifice this mission demonstrated in world war two, but a generation that was formed by the hardship of

the great depression. raised in the privation, they were handed the responsibility of saving democracy. many of them were women, and some of you know this first hand because you are here today. whitten veterans of world war two. we are honored to have you with the -- women veterans of world war two, we are honored to heavy with the. the three would not be possible without their effort, who served with dignity, and did the sometimes on glamorous, but i absolutely crucial work to do the war effort going. the national parks service is privileged to host this event in your honor. it is fitting that our keynote speaker is the first female four-star general in the u.s. mr. -- military. she carries on the tradition you veterans have done so much to establish. the director of the center for

when and veterans is another in the long line of accomplished military women, and inspiration to others, and a testament to the dedication and capability of all women in the armed forces. i would also like to identify the chairma of the friends of the national world war ii memorial, who is not going the co-sponsor of the event, but works with the national park service everyday to make sure this memorial and the services are held as was intended, an homage to those who answered the call, men and women, in the defining event of the 20th century. when she was confirmed as a four-star general, she said it was important that we remember the generations of women whose dedication and commitment helped open the doors of opportunity for us today. that is you, who have traveled here today to honor us with your

presence, not just our women veterans of world war two, but the doe not dollies, the rosy the rigors of a hole punched in, and did their job on the home front until the conflict was settled. we are gathered here to recognize all of you, especially those who made the special sacrifice, and hold a special place in our hearts. let us pause for a moment of silence to remember them. >> thank you, welcome, and may god bless all of our veterans. [applause] >> thank you, sir. ladies and gentlemen, we will now hear remarks from the chairman of the board of the friends of the national world

war ii memorial. [applause] >> we cannot think you enough to be with us on this very special day. you are the ideal person for our keynote speaker. a special welcome to all of our distinguished guests. we have so many distinguished guests who have come to help us think and honor our veterans. ladies and gentlemen, and especially our honored guest today, the world war two veterans, and especially the zero women who served in world war two. [applause] >> today, we remember all veterans, in all of our wars and

also, we want to remember those who are serving in active duty today, especially the families of all of the veterans and those serving. we also want to thank those who flew in this morning from illinois, who came to see the memorial, some of them, for the very first time. you make this very special, by flying in this morning, and being with a -- with us. thank you. [applause] >> we also have another special group of heroes with us. we have women who serve in world war two, who live in the armed services retirement home, here, in washington. we think that group for being with us here, as well. [applause] thank you, you all, for coming,

and taken apart in this very special ceremony. as we all know, all across america today, people are gathering to pay tribute to our veterans, and the men and women who are serving in our armed forces today. we pause to remember and honor the contributions of all veterans who always answered our nation's call to duty. we should remember every day the gift of our veterans, the gift that they gave us, and that is a strong, free, and beautiful america that we are privileged to call home. we owe them a debt that we can never repay. on this veterans day, at this ceremony, on this very special place, we have chosen to especially remember the women who served in world war two --

women have always played a critical role in securing our independence, and defending our freedom. women have served our nation in peace and war, since the war of independence, and the beginning of this nation. they are among our nation's greatest heroes. during world war two, won in volunteered in large numbers -- within volunteered in large numbers. that was not easy in those days. they volunteered to serve in the home front, in the factories, the defense plants, and piloting aircraft to our allies, reaching allies, and especially, they kept the home fires burning at home. they burned brightly, as they ran the business, the homes, to care for children, and the elderly. our keynote speaker today has

built her career on the legacy of those great heroes who we honor at this ceremony. as you already heard, general ann dunwoody is our nation's first four-star female general. her career has been built on nothing but a very tough and demanding jobs, one after the other. in her current assignment as the commanding general of the army material command is one of the most challenging commission jobs that we have in the army. it is challenging in peacetime, and even more so in wartime. i know that firsthand, but -- because i have served in that command. i'm extremely proud of her and all of her accomplishments. she symbolizes to be honored today, those great women who served our nation, and especially in world war ii. it is also a pleasure for me to serve on the board of the

friends of the national world war ii memorial. this is a non-profit organization that works very closely and very probably with the nation's parks service, and also the military district of washington, to play defense like this one, to assist in sharing this sacred memorial with our world war ii veterans, and your families. also, we want to share this with all of america, and we want to make sure we remember the lessons in the history of that great war. most of the founders of this organization are former members of the american battle monuments commission, and they served on the memorial site and design selection committee. they literally put their heart and soul into making this memorial a reality for our world war ii veterans, and they fought extremely hard to put it on this

very piece of sacred ground where you are this morning. behind me are 4048 gold stars on the freedom wall. each one of these stars represents 100 fall in u.s. service members. -- fall in u.s. service members, those who never returned home to their families -- to the goldstar fathers, the gold star mothers, the goldstar spouses, the gold star children, and the goldstar families who know better than most the price of freedom. america's greatest heroes are resting under the headstones at arlington national cemetery and other cemeteries located near battlefields all around the world. this world war two memorial and shrines the memory -- enshrines

the memory of all who serve in that world -- war. these gold stars remind us that they gave all of their tomorrows for our freedom. we should remember that freedom comes at a very high price, and we -- and will never be free. the greatest generation fought the most destructive war in history. approximately 60 million people all over this world lost their lives, mostly those who were overrun by the war. millions were murdered in concentration camps, death camps, and prisoner of war camps. the greatest generation overcame great odds. there was no certainty that we would win that war. they not only save this nation, but this generation literally

save the world. as we reflect on their sacrifice, let us remember the unity that this monument represents, and the spirit of america that shone so brightly on the dark world in the days of world war two. this memorial will help us like the path for our children and our grandchildren who will be the leaders for the land of the free, and the home of the break. god bless all of all world war two veterans, all of our veterans, and all of our service members serving today, and their families. god bless america, and thank you for coming, and help us to remember, honor, and thank our

veterans. [applause] >> thank you, general. ladies and gentlemen, we are very grateful to have members [unintelligible] [inaudible] [no audio] ♪ >> ladies and gentlemen, the vice president of the united states.

>> lyndon johnson, the procession is led -- ladies and gentlemen, the procession as lead to dead. as the colors are posted, the united states marine band will play the national emblem march. please place your hand over in your hearts, or rendered a salute as the post the colors. ♪

♪

♪

>> please remain standing for the prayer for all veterans, the law offered by the department of veterans affairs chaplain's service. >> let us pray. holy god, as we return to arlington, to honor america's veterans, we seek your blessing upon hour ceremony, and the hundreds of veterans day

ceremonies being held at this moment across our nation and the world. today we pause from the rush of everyday living to remember the sacrifice and service of america's veterans. how very blessed we are to live in a nation that is free, made strong by generations of service members and their families, will believe yen, and were willing to die for american values. these veterans are your gift to our nation, and their guests to the world is freedom. we honor them today, knowing that those who served still carry the wounds of war in their minds, bodies, and speak to -- spirits. their families, though proud of their service, still suffer a loss that cannot be replaced. veterans who return from the battle to face unexpected

challenges in returning home. help them to take their skills, and build a new, meaningful lives. as we gather here, may your presence bring healing and comfort to our nation's veterans and their families. as we honor our veterans, also bless our sons and daughters, as they continue to answer the call of duty to defend the cause of freedom at home, and a rumble world. hear our prayer we pray. amen. >> now, i would like to invite major kurt week to lead us in the pledge of allegiance.

>> i pledge to the flight of the united states of america, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under god, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> please be seated. it is now my distinct privilege to introduce the leaders of the national veterans service organizations that comprise the veterans day national committee. the committee was formed by presidential order in 1954, to hold this annual observance, and to encourage and support veterans day observances to rock

the merit -- nation. please hold your applause until we have introduced all of our special guests. if you are able, please stand when i call your name. , arthur cooper. , brian thacker. wallace tyson. norbert ryan jr. theresa russell bell the national president of the korean war veterans association. delbert found solace, national commander, american gi former -- forum.

morris barker, national commander of american pecks prisoners of war. the national treasure for the vietnam's veterans of america. richard e. eubanks, veterans of foreign wars. the national comnder of amvets. the national president of the blind veterans association. the national commander of the army and navy union of the usa. the national commander of the noncommissioned officers association. clayton jones, national commander of the military order of the purple heart of the usa.

pearl harbor survivors association. national commandant, marine corps league. michael mccoy sr., the national president of the military chaplains association bill lawson, national president of the paralyzed veterans of america. the associate members are located in the boxes to my left. catherine frazier, national president, goldstar wives of america. the director of government relations, airforce association. the national commander of the navy veterans of america.

the international president of the air force sergeant association. the chairman of the board health -- help hospitalized of veterans. president of the humanitarian services, american red cross. dr. linda schwartz. the president of the national association of state veterans' homes. richard jones, legislative director, national association for uniformed services. president of the japanese- american veterans association. darling baker, a chair of the board. the wounded warrior project. the national presidentf the women's army corps veterans association. ladies and gentlemen, please

join me in recognizing our veterans and national leadership with your applause. [applause] >> founded in 1890, the legion of valor of the usa is an organization of veterans who are recipients of our nation's highest decorations for valor -- the medal of honor, and distinguished service cross, the navy cross, and air force cross. the legion of valor is represented today by their national commander, was awarded the distinguished service cross for extraordinary heroism during combat operations in 1968, in the republic of vietnam. if it is now my pleasure to introduce the national commander of the legion of valor of the usa, the host of this year's national veterans day observance.

[applause] >> thank you. mr. vice president, distinguished guests, fellow veterans, families, and friends of veterans, welcome to the 2010 observance of veterans day at arlington. this day, november allotment, fish is just one of 365 days -- november 11, is just one of three and 65 days were americans should honor our veterans i am honored to be a part of this observance. including -- included in the program you received is a brief description of the legion of valor. we are the oldest veterans' service organization, founded in 1890. for the past 120 years, we have strived to demonstrate our commitment to our country, and to the ideals for which it

stands. as one of the smaller veterans services organizations, our our screech is limited. we have a program to recognize bravery in non-combat situations. a recent example was the award of a silver cross to the members of the fort hood military police who captured the alleged gunman who shot and killed 13 members of the fort hood community. in addition to the silver cross for bravery, we have an active program to recognize achievement and leadership by rotc cadets. the award of our braun's cross is highly respected, and is carefully coordinated with the services rotc department. our small membership does not preclude our active support in promoting veterans affairs. member's purpose appeared in numerous organizations and the committees, working to improve the lives of all veterans.

a particular concern is the challenge of returning veterans, and the challenge they have in obtaining employment. we're hopeful that the government and private-sector programs to enhance employment opportunities will be successful. we are proud of these efforts, and continue to seek ways in which we could actively continue. our membership is unique, not determined by wealth, education, or birthright. we share only one bun, which is having received one of the country's two highest rewards. most of these awardees have also received a purple heart in connection with this action, and many have been awarded a cost dubiously. on this day, we -- cost seriously. we want to recognize them for their ultimate sacrifice. yet, for all the her relics of

our members, we are an unassuming group -- yet for all the heroics of our members, we are an unassuming group. we are proud to host today's observance. thank you for up attending. it is my privilege to introduce to you the secretary of the department of veterans affairs. [applause] is >> good morning, everyone, and vice president joe biden, minority leader john boehner, and other members of congress, secretary gates, the joint chiefs of staff. i like to it knowledge them. vice-chairman mrs. cartwright. general mrs. casey. general schwartz.

the comment of the coastguard is here as well -- the commandant of the coast guard is here today. to our calls for this year's celebration, our thanks for a wonderful ceremony, not the least of which is the great weather you produced. for those of us who were here one year ago, what a difference a year makes. of the other representatives of our veteran service organizations, we count on your support, your insights, and your leadership. thank you so much for being part of our support network at veterans affairs. fellow veterans, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, the morning. for over 90 years now, americans have set aside this day and this hour to honor the men and women who have served our country in peace and in war while wearing

the uniforms of the united states of america. it is a day of remembrance. it is a day of thanks. it is a day of prayers. it is a day of promises. promises that the sacrifices of those who have served will not be forgotten. promises that returning warriors will not bear their wounds alone. that their families will receive help in facing uncertain futures, and that the survivors of those who do not return will be embraced, and cared for by a grateful nation. to keep these promises, the congress established the department of veterans affairs. 30% of the workforce are veterans themselves. selfless americans, dedicated to meeting the needs of our nation's veterans each day.

veterans do not strive alone. the mission of our president, the leadership and support of our congress, the concerted efforts of our veterans service organizations, and the american people themselves, are needed to address and resolve a complex and complicated challenge facing veterans who have given so much, and especially now, during difficult economic times. last year, president obama and the congress provided the largest single-year budget increase in over 30 years. the president's 2011 budget request would increase veterans affairs funding by another 10%. over the past 22 months, va has begun using these resources to address long-standing issues with critical support,

bipartisan support, of the congress. implementing the new post-9/11 gi bill -- today, many are enrolled in college under this program. when you include the other education programs, the number goes up over 660,000. awarding service connection for three new diseases for vietnam veterans who were explode -- exposed to agent orange. to hundred 50,000 veterans are expected to submit claims and their automated payments began last week. granting service connection to all combat veterans suffering from verifiable ptsd, posttraumatic stress disorder, and finally, gravid -- granting service connection for nine new diseases associated with the gulf war illness. we will continue our efforts on behalf of veterans on every front, increasing tir access

to benefits and health care, eliminating the disability claims backlog that frustrates all of us, and pending veteran homelessness in the next five years. with the leadership of the president, the continued support of the congress, we will provide quality care and timely benefits to those who have sacrificed the most on behalf of our nation. our special guest today fully shares the president's commitment to america's veterans. he has seen his own son off to war, it endured the long wait for that son's return, and felt the special pride of knowing that the burden of wartime service was not left entirely to others. ladies and gentlemen, i am honored personally and professionally to present to you a patriot in his own right, the vice-president of the united states of america, joe biden.

[applause] >> thank you. thank you very much. thank you for your service, in uniform, and out of uniform, in taking care of the veterans. thank you for your hospitality. roger and i were kidding when another. he said my speech is in big print, and i said so is mine. we are of the same generation, and the same era. to all of the veterans service organizations, some of local high have the honor of having breakfast with this morning in the white house, thank you for your service, your vigilance, and your constant voice on behalf of america's veterans.

jim, thank you, for being master of ceremonies today, and our new superintendent, thank you very much for your hospitality and the great service you rendered to this nation and -- nation. and to leader, john boehner, and soon-to-be speaker of the house john boehner, congratulations, it is good to have you here today. [applause] let me say at the outset, i set this at the theater in may to observe memorial day. i think i was talking to secretary gates when i said this is one of the truly great honors, one of the great honors bestowed on me as vice president of the united states to be able to return here on veterans day. this slight november chill today contrasts with the 91 degree heat we experienced on a sultry

day in may. it should remind us, in my view, that the heat we indoors in may is nothing compared to the heat our veterans in toward in world war two in the pacific, and in some cases going for days without water. nothing, nothing compared to the generation of americans who waited through the rice paddies in vietnam, and nothing compared to the heat experienced when i visited our troops in the middle of the summer, showing me the inside of the egg vehicle that had just saved their lives -- of a vehicle that i just saved their lives. i saw a thermometer at a nearby wall that was 115 degrees. these kids do it every single day. the chilean the air is nothing compared to what our men fought through 60 years ago.

nothing compares to the snow, and the cold that hampered our forces 66 years ago, and nothing compared to what the a sixth brigade combat team, or th first battalion, or the 101st airborne division experienced, and is experiencing, or will experience in the mountains in afghanistan. i have seen it firsthand. i was with the general when a southern snow squall -- sudden snow squall four-star helicopter to -- forced our helicopter to land. we landed where a mountain division had just climbed with 60-pound packs of beer to engage al qaeda. it absolutely -- packs of beer

to engage -- gear to engage al qaeda. ladies and gentlemen, these are furious warriors. -- phyllis warriors. there is a section in "east of eden" where it is described what it means to be a soldier. here's what he said. "a soldier is the most holy of all humans because he is the most tested. a soldier must learn to put himself in the way of losing his own life without going mad. if you could bring yourself to face, not shadows, but real death, described in recognizable by a bullet or saber, aero or lans, then you need never be afraid again.

i look out at all of you who have served our nation, and all of you who have stood by their side, and waited as they served. i see the most tested among us, the most tested of all americans. i also see the most honorable men and women, citizens who have never feared the future, and who are determined to build a better future to this date. collectively, the generation of soldiers, sailors, and airmen who have served and sacrifice for us are the heart and soul, the very spine of this nation. as a nation, we pause today to say thank you to more than 23 million surviving the veterans who have so bravely and faithfully protected our freedom. you gave, and they gave.

[applause] >> those of you assembled here, and those of you assemble that similar ceremonies all over the country, like my son is attending, and the millions of you who gave in service, limb, and sometimes life, fulfilling your oath to this nation and to all of us, we owe you. in doing so, part of the responsibility is on all of us as well to recognize, of red -- respect, honor, and to care for those who risked their lives so we can live hours -- hours. over the last decade, our military has to embark on a longer sustained combat than in

all of american history. more than two million service members have not deployed to iraq and afghanistan, more than half of whom returned to civilian life with the honored title of veteran. of those men and women, the very best of this nation, over 40,000 have been wounded. 18,000 wounded, and unable to return to duty, and over 5700 have made the ultimate sacrifice, including general kelly's son, who returned home today. only 1% -- only 1% of america, only 1% of this nation is fighting these wars.

as my wife jill says every gathering she holds with military families, 100% of america owes them a thank you. 100% of the nation can and must do something to acknowledge what they have done for us, and continue to do this very moment for us. in august, the combat mission came to a end in our iraq. rougy 50,000 of those warriors have been shifted from combat to advise, and equipped iraqi security forces. there is still grave dangers in this mission, but is a mission that moves us closer to the day at the end of next year when our

american soldiers returned to america able to leave iraq in the hands of the iraqis. afghanistan, as i speak, our soldiers there are making measurable progress on the over- arching goal to disrupt, dismantle, and ultimately defeat al qaeda in afghanistan and pakistan. this mission also comes at great cost, lives, the loss of limbs, but not the loss of spirit or courage. i, like many of you here, make a habit on a regular basis to visit our hospitals. i was recently at a hospital, and the nurses were taking me around to the veterans who were severely wounded. we walked into a young officers

room, who was there with his wife, and he had lost one light, almost at the hip, and the other, just below the knee. his left hand was mangled. he was asleep. i said please, to the doctor or nurse, do not disturb him. the attendant officials reject the attending physician said if he knows you are here and we did not awaken -- the attending official says if he knows you are here and we did not awaken, he would be offended. so they awoke him, and this young man reached up with is one good hand to the triangle above his bed, pulled himself up, and said "sir, i apologize, it was my intention to be able to stand and salute you when you came in. no self-pity, know why me?

just service to his country. like hundreds of the young men and women i have met with, you know what i most often get asked? when i leaned down and say is there anything i can do . .

the alaska senate race is down not decided. lisa rakowsmurkowski's representatives to say that joe miller's observers are making petty oppositions. senator murkowski has a 89% of

the vote undisputed. in the senate, democrats and republicans will meet separately on tuesday. house republicans are meeting on tuesday and wednesday will affect -- >> many of veterans ceremonies

took place at the veterans memorial for vietnam veterans. e years. germany. [laughter] we will now begin on behalf of the vietnam veterans memorial fund and national park service. this is our annual ceremony.

at this point in time, we would like to ask you to stand as the military district of washington armed services color guard presents the callers -- colors. please remain standing until the colors are retired.

>> [singing] o say, can you see, by the dawn's early light, what so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous

fight, o'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming and the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air, dave proved tonight that our flag was still there, o, say does that star spangled banner yet wave, o'er the land of the free and the home of the brakes? >> thank you very much. here to lead us in the pledge of allegiance is edward times. a veteran of the battle of ia drang. he will be laying a wreath today. at this time, we can all say the pledge of allegiance.

>> i pledge allegiance to the fled of the united states of america, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under god, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. amen.

>> god bless america, god bless our troops on the battlefield of war today, and all of our veterans, and all of the veterans that died. god bless america. >> thank you very much. yomight -- you may be seated at this time. the army lt. colonel, the deputy chaplain will lead us in prayer at this time. >> please join me in prayer. gracious god, in whom we live and move and have our being, we recognize that freedom is not the substance of, but rather the context for of lives lived

abundantly an excellent way. we give thanks for the freedom we, in this nation, in july, but which we, because of the business of our lives are prone to take for granted. we pause with knowledge that if freedom is not free. we are gathered in places all over our land this veterans day, at cemeteries, monuments, and that'll feed -- battlefields, and here at this wall. we gathered to remember with deep gratitude those who have given their full devotion in armed conflict to the preservation of our of liberty. we remember especially those who served so bravely and sacrificial the in a faraway land called vietnam. as friends, families, and those who shared foxholes' spend time in remember is, may your presence in member of -- in member this community. the strength and your presence to those that are in harm right

now, that they may serve ponderously and courageously. make each one of us wise stewards of the freedom that has been gained and preserved for us. amen. >> thank you. for nearly 30 years, the vietnam veterans memorial fund has been proud to work hand-in- hand with the national parks service to ensure that this site, one of the most visited places in washington, continues to offer visitors a very healing and positive experience during their visit. we are partnering with them now to create the education center at the vietnam veterans memorial, which will be built across the street. this will work in synergy with the memorial itself, to teach visitors about the values of individuals who served in all of america's wars, particularly the vietnam war. we will have the photographs of

the casualties in there, and we now are part of a nationwide program with 12, almost 14,000 for a grass. we need all of the photographs of the casualties. come to our web site. find out how to submit a photograph. this would be a great moving tribute for america's the veterans. we have enjoyed working with the national parks service to see it come -- become a reality. we are working on significance maintenance problems -- projects. in july, we agree -- completed a six-week restoration of a statue. it cost a lot of money to do that. we had to get the best people available to restore, and it actually looks as good as it did when it was new. i want to thank each and

everyone of you, because we had to get the money from the people, and the donors, and many of you gave donations to help them along. the other thing we had to do was two years ago. this was literally the worst grass on the national mall. i have never seen anything as bad as that. we got to work on it. we paid contractors to come in here. we got the sprinklers working again. we did some double-seeding. it cost us a lot of money. you help us raise that. it is greatly appreciated. it is an honor to work with the national parks service to take care of vietnam's veterans memorial bridge of the vietnam veterans memorial. we did this memorial to the national park service in 1984. secretary ken salazar was actually going to speak with us today, but he was called away on urgent government business.

here to represent the park service is maria burks, the acting superintendent of the national mall memorial parks. she has done everything in her career, including running ellis island and the statue of liberty -- very large complicated parts with a lot of moving parts and outside organizations. the taxpayers are lucky to have people like her. at this time, maria, which would like to have you say a few words. -- we would like to have you say a few words. [applause] >> thank you, jan scruggs, for that generous introduction. good afternoon, everyone. distinguished guests, distinguished speakers, vietnam veterans, ladies and gentlemen, i am a real bricks, the acting superintendent, and i am representing secretary ken salazar. he very much wanted to be here today.

not being able to come was a real disappointment to him. it has been a real gift for me. i remember vividly the first time i saw this memorial, and i remember walking down the wall, looking at the names, thinking about the stories behind those names, the meaning of the fact that they were on the wall, and it was transformed it for me. that experience stuck with me until this day, and i am just delighted to be here. i like to honor and recognize the memorial fund and jan scruggs, frankly, for building a memorial, and for their ongoing work in partnership with us to help all visitors come, understand, and appreciate the moral, and what it means to them personally. -- the memorial, and what it means to them personally. the memorial creates -- contains

58,000, to let 78 names of the servicemen and women who died in vietnam, and those who remain missing in action. it is a special place, where everyone can come together and remember and honor those who served, and those who are still serving today. the memorial consists of four parts. for those of you that have not visited the other three parts, there is the wall, there is the in memory plaque, and very special, the vietnam the women's memorial. each element is different, and each one is a touchstone for many people here today. i can guarantee you, it is also bad for people who come here every year. we are probably biased, but we do think that the national parks are wonderful places to seek

solace and inspiration. many of our parks hold important monuments and memorials. a visiting them can give us all a way to recognize those who served and continue to serve our great nation, and remind all americans of the heritage we hold in common. for that reason, the national park service is waiting seized in honor our veterans, serviceman, and service within. we hope you will come see us. i know that there are many veterans in the audience today, some who served in viet nam, some who served, or are currently serving in other conflicts or wars around the globe. as an american, i think you for your selfless service to our country. i stand here in admiration of your sacrifice and your courage. so, thank you, and may god bless america.

[applause] >> we always have a lot of very interesting people here. we have a veteran of world war one. -- world war ii -- rev. elbert, could you stand-up? he was in world war two, and vietnam with the u.s. chaplain's service, and if you ever get an opportunity to come to the shiloh baptist church, from time to time you can hear him say a few words. we also have the veterans of the ia drang valley. are you all sitting in that section? could you stand up, for a minute? [applause] >> a bunch of them. yes. remember, that was the big battle -- there was a movie, in

which then north vietnamese wanted to test our abilities to respond to their military tactics. it was quite a mess. anyway, at this time, i am pleased to introduce to you when of the great military leaders, really in modern history, general barry mccaffrey. he served with great distinction in the vietnam trade he is a graduate of the u.s. military academy at west point. he won more than a few purpleheart. he was variously -- he was a very seriously wounded. he has won every medal you could imagine. he was an active combat leader, a four-star general, but retirement has never really worked for general mccaffrey. he is a commentator. he is chairman of the advisory board for the education center

at the vietnam veterans memorial, and an expert on mexico, and many of the nation's and world's problems. he frequently gives lectures and also serves as an adjunct professor at the military academy. he shares -- he chairs our advisory board for the education center at the memorial, and we have some very distinguished military veterans and historians working with us to develop the exhibits from across the street for this facility. we are very happy to have him spear-heading the project, along with the national park service, and we think general mccaffrey for his leadership. when invited to say a couple of words. -- we invite him to say a couple of words. [applause] >> thank you very much to you, john dick bove, peter holt,

general colin powell, and others who have come together to build this underground education gentle. it will be across the street. we have 25 million. the momentum is gathering. we are enormously proud. we will link 58,000 of our fellow soldiers, marines, airmen, soldiers, when their birthday comes up, we will memorialize them in the education gentle. the next two years will be crucial. go online, and give us a hand. let me also take one second to say how pride -- proud i am. does company i was -- the company i was privileged to serve with in the vietnam gets together. the first sergeant and i are still the old guys. i started at age 25. can i ask all -- can i ask them all to stand up?

thank you for your service. [applause] >> my purpose and privilege is to it is everybody's marshall kym osley. the united states and australia are long-standing allies. we fought together in vietnam. many of the items left at the law reflect the service of these australian stock -- soldiers and airmen. kym osley now works of the embassy of australia, here in washington. he is a member of the royal australian air force. he's had a distinguished career, as you would imagine, which included the director of the office center in the middle east. in that assignment, he directed a coalition air operations and combat operations over both iraq and afghanistan. he kept his appointment as the head of the australian defence

staff, here in washington. he holds a number of academic degrees, is a member of the order of australia, has been awarded a conspicuous service across -- cross. at the end of the day, the australians and the americans have fought together in every conflict since world war one. they have been tremendous allies. they have shed their blood with us. join me in welcoming speech welcoming air vice marshall, kym osley. -- air vice marshal kym osley. [applause] >> and australian cannot resist collet -- responding to that call. thank you for that introduction. to all of our vietnam veterans, veterans of all war, and ladies

and gentlemen, it is of great honor to be up here and to talk about a struggle contribution over the years. -- australia's contribution over the year. i was quite amused to see how many people had come across australians in the vietnam. i should ask the question, who has parted with the australians in vietnam? [laughter] >> i am surprised he is survived. [laughter] -- you survived. [laughter] >> ladies and gentlemen, a very warm good day from the australian vietnam veterans. they have just finished their remembrance day, back in australia, and i assure you there are a couple of hangovers. they do remember just as fondly the french upset they made in vietnam. on a ridge in the french ships they made in vietnam.

-- the french ships they made in vietnam. we call at remembrance day. after world war one, we started to call it remembrancer it. ostrow was a very hard by the number of casualties. -- australia was hit very hard by the number of casualties. we had 10% of our population killed or injured. 3% were killed. that is incredible decimation of our male population. if you are wondering why australians are so strong about remembrance, that is where it all began. we had the highest ratio killed of any allied nation in world war one. if the same ratio was applied to the u.s., 4.5 young males would have been killed. it is not something we take pride in, but we do acknowledge, and we do say is the reason why

we must keep remembering on remembrance day. vietnam is a long way away from the u.s., but there's another difference with australia. vietnam is in our backyard. while it appeared to be at a distance, for australia, where actually fighting for democracy in southeast asia, yet our region. for us, the war has a great meaning that goes well beyond just the statistics. thank you to all of the vietnam veterans for making democracy the rule of the day in our part of the world. we see why. -- we see why. -- thank you. [applause] >> we had almost 60,000 australians serving over there. many of them were fighting on the ground, but many were flying overhead, either with the united states air force, where their

own aircraft -- or their old aircraft. it was a very big deal to us. we have, unfortunately, 500 or more that did not come back. the remembrance of those people is part of the reason why it is very important that australia be involved in the vietnam veterans memorial fund, and in the education center that is being planned. there are a bunch of stories about veterans and need to be told -- that needs to be told. a strike is keen to keep those memories alive for future generations. our recently reelected government has answered the call. we intend to donate 3 million u.s. dollars to the education center, here, in the u.s.. [applause]

>> what we would like is when the australian veterans come across here, they can stand side-by-side again with their vietnam veterans from the u.s., and see their pictures of their killed, alongside those of the u.s.. [applause] >> ladies and gentlemen, to live again for allowing an australian, along with from home, to say a couple of words, and see why, in particular, to our vietnam veterans. thank you. [applause] >> we appreciate the inspiring words. not long after the memorial was built, australian veterans began coming here from australia, obviously, and some of them left hats, boomerangs, and things like that. these are the sort of things we can display in the education

center across the street. it is an extremely generous contribution and it is greatly appreciated. at this time, i would like to introduce the fellow vietnam veteran diane carlson evans, whose vision, hard work, and determination brought about the vietnam women's memorial, which is behind you. ladies and gentlemen, diane carlson evans. >> thank you very much. good to see you. thank you, jam. since air vice marshal kym osley is here, 19 australian nursing sisters who served in vietnam came here in 1993 to stand beside their sisters -- american sisters, who had served in vietnam. they were so appreciated and so

welcomed. we went to the australian embassy. the award, care, and concern that was there because we, vietnam's nurses cared for the australians. i was stationed at the evacuation hospital on the south china sea. the australian hospital -- i did not think the australians realize there would be so many in -- injured and wounded. we got these soldiers into our hospital, and one worth out of their mouth, and we knew where they were from. i did not care how sick they were, how wounded they were, they have a sense of humor, and they wanted a cold beer. and, they wanted everyone of us american nurses to go down to the beach, and party with them when they got out of the

hospital. dell, australia. they were wonderful young men. i attended the 1994 dedication of their vietnam memorial, which is really powerful, profound, and beautiful. i found the one name, barbara black, who served in vietnam, their only nurse who died as a result of the war. her name is on the wall at the war memorial, hatched in bronze. as war phases -- phase from memory, so did the sacrifices of those who fought at. on veteran's day we grasp the significance of the millions of men and women who served before us, with us, and the generation returning home today. we try to remember each of these generations. wartime and peacetime, and comprehend their achievements,

and appreciate the enormity of their contributions to our country. the vietnam generation leaves a memorial as a testament to the american spirit. this memorial galvanized a nation. to honor those moments of sacrifice, hours of hardship, days of courage, and years of service of men and women no different than the millions before them up or after them, or today -- the vietnam women's memorial leaves its legacy of women veterans' stories now being written into american consciousness. these stories shined a light on the names etched here, and on the fis -- thousands of those who survived. they provide a glimpse into a historical experience.

"i care for each, as though my brother. no time for cry, must tend to another, and another. time has passed, and i still recall, your courage, your struggle, and your fault. rest in peace, your war now done, how brief your life, as the setting sun." that was written in 1969, south china sea. today, i am honored to introduce one of the veterans of the memorial represents -- a woman who joined the army as a student nurse in 1969, and his brother's life was as brief as the setting sun. he had been killed in vietnam in 1966. three years later, she received her orders to study nursing at

walter reed mont -- walter reed army medical center. she graduated in 1973, at which time she was commissioned into the army nurse corps, and went on to serve for 23 years. currently an employee of the health care organization, she is dedicated to the quality care and safety of patients, just as she had been in her career as an army nurse. today, she lives in the montana, and works for the joint commission as a nurse serve there. please welcome lieutenant colonel connie schultz. [applause] >> general barry mccaffrey, air vice marshal kym osley, honored guests, friends, and most

importantly, veterans, although i have visited this memorial many times in the past, my attention is normally to the names on the wall. i never thought of the times that i would ever be standing here giving thanks to america's veterans. before i go on, there is a group of people i need to recognize. my brother was a member of the 173rd airborne brigade. i learned that are having their union. i would like them all to please rise, so we can recognize them. where are you? [applause] >> i want to thank diane for giving me this opportunity, as soon as i get my notes back. sorry. >> she might have to wait. >> to share -- to share the significant tribute.

march 16, 1966, changed my life forever. it was on that day my family was notified of the death of my brother, who was a member of the hundred 73rd airborne. he was killed in action and subsequently awarded the silver star for heroism. it had been just over three weeks that he had said goodbye to us, he was off to war. he left just days after the burial of a young marine, friend, and actually eventually became my brother-in-law, as he gave his life for his country. my mother became a gold star mother with his death. at 91, her wish had been to be here today one more time to honor her son. she sends her blessings, but

does not feel she is up to the trip. i wish to dedicate this moment in time to her. as i prepared for this day, i found myself reflecting on my brothers, and how their deaths impacted my life and my decision to serve in the military. as a high-school student, i was determined to serve. my life-long dream was to be a nurse. why not the honors in the army or the military? on september 9, 1969, i made that commitment to serve, as item listed in the army has a selectee to attend a nursing program. my role models at that time became those army nurses who had served in vietnam that were not teaching me how to become one of them. i graduated from nursing school in june of 1973, at which time i

was commissioned in the army nurse corps. it was too late. i never got the chance to serve in that war. in january of 1973, the cease- fire agreement was signed. as a student at walter reed army medical center, and as an army nurse in subsequent wars, i did serve those who have been to war, when the save the hurt, emotionally, and physically, seen on those veterans. as an army nurse i dedicated my career to the model to preserve the fighting strength. my career as an army nurse was spent training for war, but most importantly, working to keep the fighting strength held the. -- healthy, alongside those nurses and has served in vietnam. if i cared for those said not only were serving, but those who had served in wars, and those

who serve in support of those who went to war. being a veteran is not only about dying for our country, or serving in a war-torn land. the value of a veteran should not be measured where we serve, but how. there will always be eras, measures of time significant to military events that we celebrate as veterans -- the vietnam war, the cold war, the gulf war, iraq, and afghanistan. the vietnam era is very significant to the vietnam women's memorial, four insiders all women who served their country during the vietnam war. -- 48 honors all women who serve their country during the vietnam war. i stand here today, representing the vietnam era veterans, and more specifically a woman. i was one of 265 thousand women

who served karen the vietnam war. i stand here today to honor all of the 1.8 million women who have served their country, and those who continue to serve. women comprise approximately 20% of today's military, active-duty and reserve, and will eventually join the roles of the u.s. minutes -- military veterans. the woman veteran looks very different from when i joined the army. roles and responsibilities have been opened up to increase the capabilities of women who served. the vietnam women's memorial is an example of the significance of memorials and monuments that we see today. it is there, not only to honor and remember, but also to educate our future generations, and to continue to be an inspiration to many women serving today. the vietnam memorial, which the

vietnam women's memorial is a part of, speaks not only for the dead, but also for the living, and all of those who served during the turbulent times. for my husband and i, our military service is in a sense, a memorial. joining the service, in memory of our brothers, who did give the ultimate sacrifice during the vietnam war. our memories of them, and our conviction to serve our country, honorably. us through our military service. i stand here today to honor all of you who have searched, and continue to serve as we are what involved in a war bigger than the vietnam war. during my travels, i have had the honor of seen the medical care of the veterans firsthand, through visits to veterans' hospitals, army, navy -- navy,

and air force hospitals. i have had the honor to visit with and shake the hands of those who have served in some capacity. it never failed to bring a tear, or of a lump in my throat as i see the pride in those veterans who say to me "we were just doing our job." we always carry on our lives rarely considering what it means to be a veteran. it is an honorable title that we carry each and every day. it is a title to be celebrated, and a role that begs us to embrace all of the new veterans. today is a day in celebration of the new veterans, a day to be recognized, and to be recognized for those of you in attendance that are not veterans, please take a moment to reflect on what veterans mean to you. how important this reflection is to our veterans.

never missed a chance to sink a veteran. i would like all -- to sank a veteran. i would like all of the veterans to stand in my salute to you. would you please stand? [applause] >> thank you, good luck, and godspeed. >> thank you, for those inspiring words. we have also noted that we have some people here on active duty. we would like for them to wav, so we can point them out for everyone. [applause] >> we also have some military veterans from iraq and afghanistan, if you could stand up here. [applause] >> you are always welcome here.

i very much assist the iraq, afghan veterans group, and ultimately, when the time is right for their memorial, i will be one of their advisers, i'm sure. we want to thank the many people who are part of the sons and daughters in touch, the american legion, amvets, disabled american veterans, the military order of the purple heart, noncommissioned officers, paralyzed veterans, rolling thunder, the vfw veterans of america, as well as the museum resources center, which houses some of the 150,000 items that have been left at the vietnam's -- vietnam veterans memorial. three times as many items as there are names. it is quite a sociological phenomenon.

this will be part of the education center across the street. we also want to say thank you to members of our corporate counl. that includes to the bishop, who is joining us today, as well as our board members. welcome as well to the students of the ego academy -- that eagle academy, who are with us today. where are you all? [applause] >> it is like high-school? middle school? ok. thank you for coming. we want to thank the veterans advisory board. they have passed out the american flags that you have.

here is a great thing that is going to happen right now because kera o'bryon, a beautiful young lady, who is a great singer, and is a professional entertainer, was able to carve some time out of her busy schedule, and she is going to sing for us. [applause] ♪ o beautiful for spacious skies for amber waves of grain for purple mountain majesties above the fruited plain america, america

god shed his grace on thee and crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea o beautiful for pilgrim feet seemed beyond the year undimmed by human tears america

america died shed his grace on the -- god shed his grace on the end crown thy good with brotherhood from sea, to the shining sea sing with me o beautiful for spacious skies for amber waves of grain for purple mountain majesties above the fruited plain america, america

died shed his grace on the crown by good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea ♪ [applause] >> that was quite impressive, i must say.

peter holt was going to be here to introduce our next speaker. he is a very dynamic the and now a veteran, who owns a team called the san antonio spurs, but could not make it did he get tied up in business. instead of peter, will have the chairman of the board of the vietnam veterans memorial fund board of directors. he will do the introduction. he served with the navy in vietnam, and now practices law in washington, d.c., and now, washington attorneys are not on the endangered list. they are all over the place. he is one of the better ones. [applause] >> thank you. i am very proud to introduce the keynote speaker this afternoon. he is a native of the area, michael heisle was born in washington, and grew up in alexandria, virginia, just across the river.

he graduated with a bachelor's degree from georgetown university, where he subsequently served on the board of directors, regions, and visitors for over 20 years. in 1970 years, he founded the heico companies, which is based in chicago, and owns and operates approximately 40 businesses worldwide in a diverse set of industries. he serves as chief executive officer of several of the company's subsidiaries. he is also the majority owner of the nba memphis grizzlies. i am glad peter was not here. we would have two nba owners fighting each other. he has served on the board of offended -- foundation that is pledged to million dollars to the wall. [applause] >> mr. michael heisle has been

deeply touched by the vietnam war kamal in ways i know he will explain. he and his wife have devoted his personal time and resources to honoring members of our community. we are very pleased to have michael nicely here with us today. [applause] -- michael heisle is here with us today. [applause] >> thank you. i like to say this is a special dayor may 10 and giving me a chance to do something i have wanted to do for many, many years, and that is to thank the veterans personally for all you have done. you have kept a safe, free, and with the benefits we get from this wonderful country. today is a very special day set aside to honor a very special group of people.

only a small percentage of our nation's citizens served in the armed forces. they protect the freedoms that we all enjoy. on this day, we turn our attention to the selfless individuals and say see why. it takes an exceptional person to serve in the armed forces. as a service member, you must put your own needs second to those of your country, you must display courage and honor in a situation fraught with danger. you must stand as an example of what is best in the united states for people around the world, and you must always do what is right, even when also what is right is also very, very dangerous. not everyone is cut out for this life, but we all benefit from the efforts of those

extraordinary individuals who willingly put on the uniform of the united states army, navy, air force, marines, and coast guard. to all of them, past and present, i send out my heart fell to thanks. i cannot think about service members without thinking about my good friend rocky versace. we were boys growing up together near alexandria, virginia. although our lives took on diverse paths, we remain close to the years. we met when we could, and broke when we were apart. -- wrote when we were apart. rocky went to west point and serbian to do both terms of vietnam to on the last night of his leave, rocky dined with my

wife and i in our small home in dallas injured, virginia. at dinner, we talked about the future, hopes, and dreams. he told us that after the tour was over, he was planning to leave the service. he wanted to become a priest, and stay in vietnam to work at an orphanage that he had helped build and support while he was in that war-torn country. he deeply loved the children of vietnam, and wanted to assist them. if i give him asylum process -- promised to help him in that dream. i never saw him again. months later, we learned that he had been wounded and captured. over the next several years, my wife and i prayed for his release, and occasionally heard vague reports that he was being

marched from village to village for propaganda purposes. our worst fear was realize when we learned he had been executed on september 26, 1965. i think i always knew it would and that way for rocky. when we learned of his capture, i told my wife "i fear we will never see rocky again." rocky has a spirit that does not compromise. he will not bend, nor will he break. they will just have to kill him. later, we heard stories from the men he had been with in captivity, about rocky and his courage, his optimism and his -- and the inability of the vietcong to break him. he was the commanding officer, or the ranking officer, and the

man that was subject to a lot of the torture and mistreatment to try to break him in front of his men. the last time he was put into solitary confinement finally, put in a bamboo cage, slightly bigger than himself, and left away from his men, never to see them again. when they were walking out, being moved to another location, they heard coming through the trees, the sound of a man singing "god bless america." that example serves as an inspiration to those many in captivity with him. i mourn my friend to this day, and also celebrate all of the things about him that made him special -- his belief in god was strong. his love of america and his commitment to west point hotel

code gave him the -- west thoses code gave him qualities. when i think of the best men and women in uniform, i think of rocky, and how willingly he put aside his own needs to assert his country. i think of his loyalty to others, his courage, his integrity, and his dedication to duty, and his deep sense of honor. i know that these values are replicated in the veterans and service members are around the globe, and i am proud of every single one of you. today, you may have heard about the education center being built across the street, near the lincoln memorial, to honor all of those who served and tell the stories of those that did not come back from vietnam. we can learn so much from the

stories of these extraordinary people. in addition to the tales of bravery and honor, we can learn about the person behind uniform. my friend rocky was an army captain, a prisoner of war, a medal of honor recipient, but he was more than that. he was a boyhood friend, a gentle soul who loved children, a big brother who helped raise his siblings. seeing his name on the granite wall behind me, or reading his medal of honor citation fills me with pride for my friends achievement. there is more to the story. in the educational center, we can give visitors a chance and a glimpse of the promise that went unfulfilled in the lives of those individuals that did not come home from the war. today, as i look out on the crowd, i see so many of you who have served in iraq,

afghanistan, the gulf war, vietnam, kea, and world war ii. in every generation, there have been those who put on a uniform, serve their country, then come home and work to make america a better place. i know it is a huge debt to repay, but to our men and women in uniform, please know that today, and every day, we are aware of what you do for our country. we know there are personal costs. we know that the blessings we enjoy are safeguarded by your unselfish and tireless effort, and we might say to you, thank you, thank you, thank you. [applause] >> very impressive. [applause] [applause]