WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement in celebration of Memorial Day:

"Of all American holidays, Memorial Day is the most solemn - it is a day of remembrance for the courageous men and women who risked everything to defend our nation. Their commitment knew no limits, and their bravery knew no bounds.

"Today we also remember the families who grieve for their loved ones, for sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, who answered the call to serve, and who did not come home. For some, that grief is recent, and hard to bear. For others, it is longer ago, but still enduring and deep.

"Many of our fellow Americans are still serving overseas, ready to defend our nation's interests every day. The men and women of our Armed Forces are the treasure of a grateful nation. Their service can never be taken lightly, or taken for granted.

"We can never fully repay their sacrifice, but we can always strive to be worthy of it. As your U.S. Senator, I will continue to work to ensure that the men and women of our Armed Forces, and our veterans, receive the honor they deserve and the benefits they have earned.

"On this beautiful Memorial Day, with friends and families, in communities throughout New Mexico and across our nation, we remember the blessings of freedom. We remember those who gave everything to secure that freedom. We mourn their loss, we honor their courage, and we celebrate their memory. They will never be forgotten."