Washington, D.C. - In case you missed it, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik published an op-ed in Watertown Daily Times honoring the service members that paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. Stefanik highlighted her work in successfully securing provisions within the 2024 national defense bill to extend support for Gold Star families who have experienced the loss of a loved one in service to our country.
Find the full opinion below.
Watertown Daily Times: Remembering Our Heroes, Honoring Sacrifice, and Supporting Survivors this Memorial Day
By Rep. Elise Stefanik
Memorial Day carries profound significance, offering a moment for somber reflection on the sacrifices made by our nation's service members who never returned home.
As the chief advocate of Fort Drum in Congress and one of the highest populations of veterans and retirees in New York State, I approach this day with a deep sense of reverence reflecting on the selflessness and courage exemplified by the soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division who made the ultimate sacrifice.
These remarkable individuals are forever enshrined in history, their bravery serving as a constant source of inspiration for our grateful nation.
Each name inscribed on the roll call of fallen heroes represents a unique story of courage, commitment, and sacrifice.
This year, as we pay tribute to our fallen, we also mourn the loss of two distinguished members of the New York National Guard, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Casey Frankoski and Chief Warrant Officer 2 John M. Grassia. These brave service members who tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash in Texas serve as a stark reminder of the inherent risks faced by those in uniform, and the toll that service exacts on both the individual and their loved ones. As we honor their memory, we stand in solidarity with their families, friends, and fellow service members.
In the face of such loss, it is our duty as a nation to ensure the well-being of our service members and their families. I am proud to have successfully secured provisions within the 2024 national defense bill to extend support for Gold Star families who have experienced the loss of a loved one in service to our country.
These initiatives include granting remarried Gold Star Spouses access to commissary and recreational facilities. It is imperative that no Gold Star Spouse loses these critical benefits.
I will continue to advocate for our Gold Star Spouses, ensuring they maintain their survivor benefits which offer them the vital support they need during their most challenging times.
As we gather with loved ones this Memorial Day, let us not forget the true meaning of this occasion. Let us honor the memory of those who gave everything to our country by supporting those they left behind. Whether it's through volunteering, donating to veteran organizations, or advocating for policies that support our military families, each of us has a role to play in ensuring that the sacrifices of our fallen heroes are never forgotten.
As a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, I remain committed to placing service members, their families, and veterans at the forefront of my priorities. This Memorial Day, let's ensure that the sacrifices of our fallen heroes are never forgotten, and that their legacy of valor and sacrifice continues to inspire generations to come.
