President Joe Biden commemorated Memorial Day with a heartfelt pledge to carry on the work of the country's fallen service members in creating a more perfect union "for which they lived, and for which they died." Speaking at a solemn remembrance ceremony held at Arlington National Cemetery, President Biden emphasized the importance of each generation ensuring that the sacrifice of the nation's service members is not in vain.

Under the gray skies of the memorial amphitheater, President Biden stated, "Freedom has never been guaranteed. Every generation has to earn it, fight for it, and defend it in the battle between autocracy and democracy, between the greed of a few, and the rights of many." He further expressed the significance of Memorial Day as a time to reflect, remember, and recommit to the future fought for by those who gave their lives. This future, he asserted, should be grounded in freedom, democracy, opportunity, and equality for all.

Prior to the ceremony, President Biden, along with Vice President Kamala Harris and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, paid their respects by placing a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The gesture served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifice made by countless service members whose identities remain unknown.

In his address, President Biden highlighted the recent anniversary of his son Beau's passing. Beau Biden served in Iraq and later succumbed to brain cancer, which the President attributes to his exposure to toxic burn pits during his deployment. This personal experience underscored the significance of honoring both the fallen and those who returned home with injuries, emphasizing the need to provide comprehensive healthcare and benefits to veterans. President Biden acknowledged the progress made in this area, stating, "Last year, the VA delivered more benefits and processed more claims than ever in our history," crediting the PACT Act for its role in granting automatic coverage for certain health conditions suffered by veterans.

President Biden commenced the day by hosting a breakfast at the White House, where he was joined by administration officials, military leaders, veterans, and Gold Star family members. The breakfast served as a moment to express gratitude and foster camaraderie amongst those present, honoring the dedication and bravery exhibited by service members throughout the nation's history.

On this Memorial Day, President Biden's powerful words and actions resonate with the nation, reminding us of the profound sacrifices made by those who have served. As Americans take a moment to pause, reflect, and honor the fallen, President Biden's commitment to a future grounded in the principles of freedom and equality serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to uphold the values for which they fought and to strive towards building a stronger and more united nation.