No two stories of service are the same. Every servicemember’s experience is different. Some have sacrificed life and limb for our freedoms, and those stories include a Purple Heart. 

During my time in Walter Reed Medical Center, I was surrounded by men and women who had suffered catastrophic injuries even more serious than mine, but what defined them was not their injuries: it was their resolve.

It did not matter their gender, color of their skin, or their socioeconomic background - they all made an incredible sacrifice for our country. It was what inspired me throughout my recovery, and continues to inspire me to this day.

If you wake up in the United States of America, underneath 50 stars and 13 red and white stripes, you have the freedom to decide that today will be better than yesterday. Many have fought for the freedom to make that choice, and many have literally sacrificed everything in defense of it.  

As we reflect on that today, we recognize National Purple Heart Day and honor the nearly 2 million Americans whose stories include tremendous sacrifice. 

We cannot take that sacrifice for granted and to each of you: thank you for your service.