R 212025Z MAY 20
ALMAR 010/20
MSGID/CMC WASHINGTON DC DMCS//
SUBJ/MEMORIAL DAY MESSAGE 2020//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  This Memorial Day, I am reminded by a comment of our 29th Commandant, General Gray, “Each Marine is a living memorial to each past Marine.”  Our duty, then, is to honor our fellow Marines and Sailors who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great Nation.  I ask every Marine, Sailor, and Civilian Marine to take a moment to reflect on the legacy of those who gave their lives preserving the freedoms of this Nation.
2.  Our Corps must never forget the sacrifices made by every generation in every conflict, and we must never forget the sacrifices of the Marines we have lost.  Accounts of courageous actions from every battlefield on which Marines have fought are permanently etched into our Corps’ history – shining emblems of valor, selflessness, perseverance, and ingenuity – embodiments of the heroic fighting spirit and devotion to duty that our Nation has come to expect of her Marines in times of crisis.
3.  Reflecting on our Marines who have paid the ultimate price, especially during this challenging and unprecedented time, affords us an opportunity to renew our resolve that no crisis or conflict will overwhelm the American fighting spirit.  Let these Marines remind us of the determination and uncommon valor that remain hallmarks of our Nation and her Marines.
4.  Take time this holiday weekend to recognize our gold star families whose continued sacrifice we honor with a moment of reflection; with gratitude and respect.  The Corps remains deeply grateful for their service and sacrifices.  Stay safe this holiday weekend and remember you are a living memorial.
5.  Semper Fidelis, David H. Berger, General, U.S. Marine Corps, Commandant of the Marine Corps.//