Luján Delivers Keynote Speech at Española Memorial Day Ceremony 

Española, N.M. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) delivered a keynote speech at Española’s annual Memorial Day ceremony, hosted by the VFW Hill-Vigil Post 5610, Española Veterans Memorial Wall Commission and City of Española. Following his speech, Senator Luján presented an American flag to the family of Major Mark Gonzales.

Later this week, the Senator will host another listening session in Gallup, New Mexico, on the impact of the recommended closures of certain Community Based Out-Patient Clinics (CBOCs).

An excerpt from the Senator’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, can be found below:

New Mexico has a proud legacy of service in the Armed Forces, from the soldiers in the Battle of Glorieta Pass in 1982 to the Navajo Code Talkers and defenders of Bataan in World War II, to thousands of New Mexicans who volunteered after 9/11. America is stronger and safer thanks to the sacrifices of these New Mexican patriots. 

My own grandfather, Luis Luján, served in World War II and recounted stories to me of his bravery as he fought alongside his brothers-in-arms – many of whom fell on the battlefield. 

While most American families know the pain of losing a relative who sacrificed for the love of our country, all American families owe a debt to these heroes who paid the ultimate price.

As your United States Senator, I stand with you all in honoring and remembering these brave men and women, who are gone, but never forgotten. 

But let’s not just remember. 

Let’s not just reflect on the problems faced by our service members and veterans who – by God’s grace – are still with us. 

Let’s find solutions. 

Let’s act to protect our veterans and their families. 

In the name of America’s fallen, let’s provide the greatest support and care – worthy of those who sacrificed for the greatest country on Earth. 

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