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Memorial Day is a time for us to honor the memories of those who’ve given the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom, as well as an occasion to pay tribute to those warriors now serving downrange, their wounded comrades still battling here at home, and their selfless family and friends whose sacrifices frequently go unnoticed.

Washington, D.C. simply needs to get out of the way and create an environment for economic growth. We have a debt “ceiling” for a reason; spending must have limits, and we must adhere to them. With tough decisions, we can continue this nation on a track for a bright future. Through principled leadership we look to a hopeful future where our children and grandchildren will pursue the American Dream.

Our country’s defense has received added attention in the wake of the death of Osama bin Laden. His death was a significant moment for the United States and the Global War on Terror, and I commend the special operations forces for their bravery and success and our intelligence communities for their patience and persistence. The determination and skill of the U.S. intelligence community was ... highlighted as a result of the assault on bin Laden’s compound.

I thought of the law enforcement officers who keep our communities safe every day and night, and the emergency first responders who we know will come to our call should we need their healing hands. These and many other exemplary citizens are the ones who take the lead in a crisis and are the first to approach difficulty when the natural reaction is to turn and run away. Without hesitation, they persevere and complete the most challenging tasks even when others have given up. And my sense is that too many in Washington, D.C. run in the wrong direction when faced with a crisis – Congress has a lot to learn from our Nation’s many public servants.