Hagel Sends 'Message of Thanks' in Memorial Day Video

You are subscribed to American Forces News Articles for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Hagel Sends 'Message of Thanks' in Memorial Day Video 05/26/2013 10:13 PM CDT Hagel Sends 'Message of Thanks' in Memorial Day Video American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, May 26, 2013 - As part of his first Memorial Day observance in office, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel released a video message today to thank those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and commend the military members who will carry on their legacy. "Memorial Day is a uniquely American day," Hagel said. "It is the one day of the year we set aside completely to remember, to honor and thank those who give so much and have given so much for this country." An Army veteran who volunteered to go to Vietnam in 1968, Hagel acknowledged that, 11 years into war these are not easy times to be part of the armed forces. "Memorials are not built to honor war," Hagel said. "They are built to remember great causes and great actions and the people who helped shaped the world for the better." The secretary also thanked military members and their families for their sacrifices in service to the nation. "It's a great honor, it's a privilege, to be part of your team," Hagel said. "Our country will never forget those who fell in battle and those who have yet to return home." In a montage of military members and veterans from across eras, Hagel said nothing makes him prouder than his association with the military and its veterans. "Their dedication and selfless service resonates deeply across the country and their legacy is carried forward proudly by those who wear our nation's uniform today," he said.   Biographies: Chuck Hagel Related Sites: A Message of Thanks – Memorial Day 2013 Special Report: Memorial Day 2013   Defense Department News Through Facebook On American Forces Press Service's Facebook page, you can post comments and share news, photos and videos. Go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Forces-Press-Service/65137437532 or search for American Forces Press Service at Facebook.com. Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time by clicking on your 'User Profile' page at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOD/subscriber/edit?preferences=true#tab1. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Have another inquiry? Visit the online FAQ at http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx for up-to-date information. Get the help you, your family, and fellow servicemembers need, when you need it. Visit www.WarriorCare.mil to learn more. Check out the National Resource Directory at www.nationalresourcedirectory.org, a new web-based resource for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families, families of the fallen and those who support them from the Departments of Defense, Labor, and Veterans Affairs. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of Defense. Visit us on the web at http://www.defense.gov/. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense