Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 30, 2004
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Gary Locke Lays Wreath at Normandy to Honor Veterans

Gov. Gary Locke yesterday laid a wreath at the American cemetery in Normandy to honor members of the armed forces who gave their lives in this historic World War II battle and to recognize Memorial Day. Locke is in Europe promoting two-way trade and tourism for Washington state.

“Next Sunday marks the 60th anniversary of D-Day,” Locke said. “Yesterday, Mona and I toured the Memorial overlooking Omaha Beach, and walked the sands where the invasion occurred. My own father, Jimmy Locke, was a staff sergeant in World War II. He was among the many who went ashore on the beaches of Normandy.

“Visiting that vast and solemn expanse of beach was an experience I’ll never forget. I was filled with awe, humility and gratitude for the many valiant souls who fought and died there so that we might all enjoy freedom today. It was my honor to lay a wreath to commemorate this historic event.”

Locke also issued the following statement in recognition of Memorial Day: “Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service. It is a day set aside to offer our prayers, our thoughts, and our gratitude to the fallen, to those who gave the last full measure of devotion.

“The men and women in our armed services have always answered the call. They leave home knowing they might not return. And many do not return. Just last weekend, I participated in a memorial service for Sergeant Jeffrey R. Shaver, a soldier from the Washington National Guard’s 81st Armored Brigade who died in Iraq. Just a few months before, Sergeant Shaver was among the men and women we saluted at a deployment departure ceremony held in the Tacoma Dome for the soldiers and their families.

“On Memorial Day, we honor those who paid the ultimate price. With love of country in their hearts and courage in their souls, they entered the valley of death. For all of us. Let us never forget their sacrifice.”

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