ALEXANDRIA, Va. (May 22, 2020) – National Credit Union Administration Chairman Rodney E. Hood issued the following statement as the nation marks the Memorial Day holiday.
“Originally called “Decoration Day,” Memorial Day began as a way to use spring flowers to honor those who gave their lives for our country. But the real reason we commemorate Memorial Day can be found in the Declaration of Independence: “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” That’s why there’s no more fitting way to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice than to celebrate the things they died for: life in all its richness; liberty to exercise our choices; and the pursuit of happiness through freedom, family, community, opportunity, and equality.
“Largely because of the sacrifices made by those who died while serving their country, we enjoy each of these blessings every day. And indeed, these blessings are proof that life will go on despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Though the pandemic has had a devastating and profound impact on our daily lives, and the country as a whole, we know that America will overcome this unprecedented challenge, and undoubtedly emerge stronger for it.
“This Memorial Day weekend, while we honor the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country, I would like to thank the 1,141 employees of the NCUA for their unwavering dedication and commitment to the highest ideals of public service.”