On Memorial Day, the US remembers those who have served and died in its service, President Joe Biden paid respect to "those who died so our nation might live" in his yearly speech.
We use our right to remember as a country every year because we must never forget the price that was paid to safeguard our democracy.
He made this statement at a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, which is known for its endless rows of white marble grave markers.
Biden laid a wreath in memory of the fallen servicemen and women at the solemn event at Arlington. The White House estimates that 3,000 people showed up for the service.
Along with Biden, Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Lloyd Austin, the secretary of defense, also spoke.
He highlighted actions his government had taken to support veterans and their families during his remarks.
It's a sacred duty that isn't based on politics or party affiliation, but rather on a promise: a pledge to bring us all together. Nothing is more significant, sacred, or uniquely American than this, he declared.
By mentioning that Tuesday marks the eighth anniversary of his son Beau Biden's passing from cancer, he drew on the experiences of his own family.