"On Memorial Day, a grateful nation pays tribute to those who died while in service to our country.  We are extremely proud of the generations of veterans from the Green Mountain Boys in the Revolutionary War to the Vermont National Guard members who are deployed around the world.  Vermonters are especially appreciative and will always remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.  Our thoughts are with the Gold Star families of those patriots who gave the last full measure of devotion for freedom," Sen. Bernie Sanders said in observing Memorial Day.

"This Memorial Day marks the beginning of the national commemoration of the 50^thanniversary of the Vietnam War.  Let us properly thank and honor veterans of that war, including those personnel who were held as prisoners of war or listed as missing in action, for their service and sacrifice.

"As a member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, I have a deep appreciation for all of the men and women who serve or have served our country.  I am keenly aware of the debt this nation owes to all of our service members, veterans and their families.  We must never forget their dedication, commitment and service."