Congressman Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) released the following statement in recognition of Memorial Day 2014:

“After graduating from medical school, I had the honor of serving as a physician at a VA clinic. In doing so, I experienced first-hand just how selfless and how honorable our veterans are. Their level of patriotism and willingness to sacrifice for the future of this great nation deserves our most heartfelt praise and gratitude. They truly embody the very best our country has to offer.

“In order to honor the soldiers who died protecting our freedoms, the very least we can do is to keep the promises we made to their brothers and sisters in arms. That means ensuring our VA system is functional and efficient so that veterans are getting the care they need and deserve. It means ensuring there are programs in place to help returning veterans reintegrate back to civilian life. And it means creating an economic environment where our veterans can find good paying jobs.

“Our veterans ran towards danger so that the rest of us may live in safety. Many of them lost their lives in doing so. On this Memorial Day let us renew our commitment to those who have worn the uniform of the United States military that we will always have their back, just like they had ours. Finally, let us pray for the safe return of those who are still serving in danger abroad and for the families of those who have lost a loved one while serving our country.”