Chief sends Memorial Day message Published May 28, 2004 WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- The following is a Memorial Day message from Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Gerald R. Murray:“In our nation’s capital, we memorialize American patriots who have fought and died for our country throughout history -- the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam wall, Arlington National Cemetery, and the newest addition, the National World War II Memorial, which will be dedicated on our National Mall on May 29. “In small towns and big cities around our nation this Memorial Day, Americans will gather around flagpoles and in cemeteries to remember the bravery of their neighbors, friends and family members who have laid down their lives so that we may continue to fly the flag of freedom. “Our generation of Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen and Airmen shares a bond with warriors of generations past. We, like them, understand in a personal way the unfortunate truth that there are times when blood must be spilled in order for peace to be secured. We, like them, know that the ultimate sacrifice may be required in order to defeat the darkness that threatens our way of life.“This Memorial Day, as America remembers the courage and commitment of heroes who died in service to our nation, we owe it to each of them to continue the fight for which they gave their lives, thus ensuring that America remains the land of the free and home of the brave.”