As Americans gather with family and friends this Memorial Day, we are reminded that our freedoms were not given to us—they were bought and paid for by the blood of patriots. We don’t just fire up the grill or enjoy a long weekend. We reflect. We remember. And we honor the brave men and women who laid down their lives so that we might live free.

President Donald J. Trump has always understood this sacred duty. From his powerful speeches at Arlington to his unwavering support for our military and veterans, Trump brought a renewed sense of pride to the American armed forces. Unlike the left, which too often sees America’s global role through the lens of shame and retreat, the Trump movement knows that peace comes through strength—and strength comes from honoring those who gave everything.

Let’s not forget that many of our fallen heroes didn’t just fight to defend American soil—they died protecting the freedom of others around the world. From the beaches of Normandy to the forests of the Ardennes, American soldiers gave their lives to liberate Europe from tyranny. They stared down evil and sacrificed their futures so that democracy could survive. They didn’t ask for recognition. They asked only that we never forget.

And in the decades since, through Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, Iraq, and Afghanistan, American service members have fought and died to keep the world in balance. The United States has been a stabilizing force, not because we seek empire, but because we believe in liberty. The global order that prevents chaos today was built on the courage of our troops—and Memorial Day is our promise that their sacrifice was not in vain.

As conservatives, as patriots, as Americans, we reject the rewriting of history that seeks to diminish the greatness of our nation. We don’t apologize for being the beacon of hope in a dark world. We honor our dead by standing strong, speaking truth, defending our borders, and putting America First—just as President Trump has always championed.

This Memorial Day, don’t just wave the flag—live by its meaning. Stand tall. Teach your children what sacrifice means. And vow to keep the promise made to every fallen soldier: that we will never forget them, and we will never stop fighting for the country they died to protect.