As America celebrates Memorial Day, we pay tribute to those who have given their lives in our nation's wars.

One only has to look at the performance of the economy to understand how it shapes the perspective of America's youth about military service.

We are particularly interested in the mental health programs and policies that support our troops and their families before, during, and after deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Army's always had a special place in my heart.

In the Armed Services Committee, we endeavored to put forth proposals that would help alleviate some of that stress, both for the troops and for their families.

Throughout the history of our young nation, we have seen our military go bravely into battle, armed with courage and willing to make the ultimate sacrifice.

For the freedoms our founding fathers not only dreamed about, but made into reality. It is that same pursuit of freedom today that is helping to make our world a safer place.