Remembering on Memorial Day

This weekend, many of us will enjoy an extended three-day break from work and school. Swimming pools will open and the corn and soy bean crops are emerging. For many, it will be a long weekend to mark the beginning of another great summer. We are blessed with many reasons to celebrate over Memorial Day weekend, but let us not forget the troops and their families, past and present, who have served, sacrificed and died for our principles and our freedom.

Many Nebraskans are overseas as I write, putting their lives on the line to protect us. Many others are doing the same here at home, and millions have preceded them throughout history. We are grateful for all of them. In the past year, my colleagues and I on the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee have pushed a host of bills through Congress to ensure that we do not lose sight of caring for our veterans and our appreciation for our military.

Last July, I reached across the aisle to work with my colleagues in improving ballot access for our soldiers and other Americans overseas. The bill improved our system for administering, delivering, and receiving election ballots from the military, regardless of where they are stationed. In a polarized Washington, overwhelming agreement on this bill is a testament to the great importance placed on insuring that those who represent and protect our democracy are able to exercise their democratic rights.

I was also able to help win passage for a bill to ease the bureaucratic strain on military families. The legislation I co-sponsored received unanimous support. It cuts much of the red tape for families who because of their service must move from state to state, and thus face varying tax laws. Another bill I've proposed would increase job training and apprenticeship opportunities for returning soldiers eager to get back into the workforce and civilian life.

Lastly, I was very pleased with the wisdom and energy of both the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee and the Veterans Administration (VA) as we went through the process of evaluating the Omaha VA Medical Center. I had the chance to host a field hearing last summer, facilitated by the VA Center, and I was thrilled to see the much-needed overhaul green-lighted in this year's Congressional Budget. Everyone involved throughout the process worked fervently to see that the quality of the VA Medical Center reflects the importance of its residents.

As we spend much of this upcoming weekend relaxing and preparing for summer, let us reflect upon the great country we have built and remember our heroes who helped to build it. Spending a day remembering the fallen and praying for those currently serving is the least we can do for those Americans who are in a class all their own. Let us truly celebrate Memorial Day by remembering why we call our great country the Home of the Brave.