Date: May 27, 2004
Contact: Angela Johnson
Phone: 340-773-6449
LT. GOVERNOR EXTENDS HIS DEEPEST GRATITUDE FOR THOSE WHO DIED IN SERVICE
TO TERRITORY AND NATION
In honor of Memorial Day 2004, Lieutenant Governor Vargrave Richards
extends his heartfelt gratitude to all members of the United States
Armed Forces who have died in service to the Territory and the Nation.
Richards asks that all Virgin Islanders pause for a moment on Monday,
May 31, 2004, to reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day and honor
the profound contributions that these heroes and heroines have made
in preserving freedom for all Americans.
"This Memorial Day, let us consider the sacrifices that have been
made by so many of our servicemen and women throughout the years,"
Lieutenant Governor Richards said. "Let us also remember the family
members who continue to mourn the deaths of their loved ones. May they
know that their sacrifices were not in vain."
Lieutenant Governor Richards continued, "Together, let us pray
for the safety of all members of the Armed Forces who are currently
serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. Additionally, I offer my
sincere appreciation to all military veterans who have contributed to
the pursuit of peace and justice - and freedom for all."
The Lieutenant Governor noted that this year in particular, the Nation
will honor the memories of those who served in the Second World War
by dedicating a national monument on their behalf. A tribute will be
held Saturday in Washington, D.C., with commemorative ceremonies to
be held the same day by the American Legion on St. Thomas and St. Croix.
"I concur with the sentiments of Abraham Lincoln when he resolved
that 'these dead shall not have died in vain, … and that government
of the people by the people and for the people shall not perish from
the earth,'" Richards said. "May all those who sacrificed
their lives in the name of freedom and democracy rest in peace."
