Memorial Day

Today and every day, we’re remembering and honoring those who gave everything for our freedom.

My campaign’s mantra is “fish, family, and freedom” – and while a lot of the time I focus on fish, today I’m talking about freedom.

Alaska has more veterans per capita than any other state in the nation and a long history of service – including two of my own kids, and I couldn’t be prouder. I have deep gratitude and respect for the sacrifices and service of our men and women in uniform.

But just gratitude isn’t enough. We need to actually support our veterans, and fight to give them what they need.

People who were willing to sacrifice their lives for our country deserve to come home to a country that takes care of them. But unfortunately, right now many of our veterans are struggling.

I can’t think of a better way to recognize Memorial Day and to honor our fallen soldiers than to recommit ourselves to the fight for dignity for those who were lucky enough to come home.

That’s why I’ll continue fighting for pay increases for our service members. I’ll continue fighting for expanded VA healthcare. And I’ll continue fighting for additional funding for Alaska’s military bases to keep our troops safe.

This fight is both a privilege and a responsibility, and it’s one I don’t take lightly.

We have the liberties we have because of those who paid the ultimate price – so today, we remember the sacrifices of those who came before us, honor them, and share our gratitude.

Gratitude to our veterans will never be enough, but it’s where we should always start. So to those who’ve served, and to their families: Thank you.

- Mary