Memorial Day is both meaningful and humbling for all of us at MOAA, given our mission of preserving and protecting the service-earned benefits of all who sacrifice for our nation.

And while I look forward to representing MOAA at the annual Memorial Day ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, I take even greater pride in knowing representatives from our 350,000-member association, led by those in councils and chapters across the country, will be in their communities to march in parades, speak at events, and honor those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice.

I will also reflect not just on the fallen, but on the family members they’ve left behind. The strength of surviving spouses and family members has been critical to the wider uniformed services community, and I have especially appreciated their contributions to MOAA’s work. Last month, for example, many survivors joined us as part of our annual Advocacy in Action event on Capitol Hill, helping support the next generation of servicemembers and continuing an unbroken bond of patriotism.

MOAA works to live up to their example, putting service before self and looking after those who continue the mission, even as we reflect on those we’ve lost.

On this Memorial Day, I am grateful for all our MOAA members, past and present, and your commitment to our mission and motto to Never Stop Serving.