The last full measure of devotion

Today, we reflect on the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our nation and the freedoms we enjoy. We will never be able to repay the incredible debt we all owe to those who gave their lives, or to the loves ones they left behind.

Each year, on Memorial Day, I am reminded of President Lincoln’s words,“It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion…”

Today is the final day of the 85th Legislative Session. It has been a long and often trying 140 days, but today, I am reminded how fortunate we are to live in a state and a nation where we can freely debate ideas.  We can’t ever take that for granted, for it is only because of the blood shed by those who have defended our nation that we are able to enjoy the liberties of the United States of America.