Secretary Haaland's Memorial Day Message

Hello everyone – I’m Secretary Deb Haaland, and I’m speaking with you from the Vietnam Women’s Memorial in Washington, D.C.  

Each Memorial Day, we remember and honor the service members who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country. This memorial is particularly important because it reminds us that our country also has many unsung heroes.  

Throughout history, women have proudly served as nurses, medics, communication specialists, and air traffic controllers who serve in combat zones. Too often, these heroes are not given the recognition they deserve.  

At the Department of the Interior, we are determined to tell everyone’s story in America through opportunities on public lands in all communities. We have a responsibility to lift up these stories to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten. 

On this Memorial Day, please take a moment to reflect on those who gave their lives so that we can live in a country that values democracy as we strive to build a more perfect union.  

To the families who have lost a service member, thank you. I know that words cannot fill the space that your loved one left behind but know that we will honor their sacrifice every day by working to make our country a better place for future generations.