[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 96 (Thursday, May 21, 2020)]
[Senate]
[Pages S2582-S2583]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              MEMORIAL DAY

  Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, due to the coronavirus pandemic, 
Memorial Day commemorations will be different this year. The 
coronavirus may force us to continue Memorial Day traditions virtually 
or privately with our families. Nevertheless, it is important for us to 
take time this weekend to honor those who bravely gave their lives for 
all of us.
  Throughout our Nation's history, courageous and patriotic men and 
women have gone into battle and lost their lives to protect the 
freedoms that make being a U.S. citizen such a blessing. I am proud 
that Mississippians throughout our history have readily committed to 
serving our Nation. Likewise, we are equally committed to honoring the 
fallen and their families.
  It was Mississippians who helped initiate the solemn act of 
commemorating those lost in battle. Columbus, Mississippi, proudly 
claims rights to originating Decoration Day, when women began 
decorating the graves of the all casualties not long after the Civil 
War.
  This year, despite all precautions we must take, there are ways we 
can remember and honor the fallen. For my part, I honor the brave 
Mississippians who have dedicated their lives to protecting our 
citizens, and I pray for the

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families who share in their sacred sacrifice.

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