Leaders in Washington, from first lady Michelle Obama to Utah representatives Jason Chaffetz and Jim Matheson, paid tribute to fallen servicemen and women and American military families on Memorial Day Monday, tweeting out their thanks and sharing their perspectives on the holiday.
President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama attended the Memorial Day ceremony in the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery Monday. During his remarks, President Obama encouraged Americans to always honor the sacrifices of soldiers, particularly with U.S. combat operation in Iraq at an end and the country's involvement in Afghanistan winding down.
The Obamas also visited Arlington's Section 60, where Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans are buried.
A tweet from Speaker of the House, Rep. John Boehner, R-Ohio, included a link to a video message in which he said Americans should never forget the people responsible for preserving freedom.
"Since last Memorial Day, at least 230 Americans have entered the ranks of the fallen. Among them: Nicholas Olivas of Fairfield, Ohio, a small town in my district," Boehner said. "These are our protecters, as true to us as the stars. How different our lives would be if not for them. When you think about it, every day is Memorial Day."
Other notable tweets from Utah and Washington leaders included:
Rep. Jason Chaffetz:
Rep. Jim Matheson:
Former Republican vice presidential nominee and current Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis.:
Vice President Joe Biden's wife, Dr. Jill Biden:
Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif.:
Rep. Louis Gohmert, R-Texas:
House Minority Whip, Rep. Steny Hoyer, D-Md.: