American military Quote by Robert M. Gates
““The day before I stepped down as secretary, I sent a message to every man and woman wearing the American military uniform because I knew I could not speak to or about them at my farewell ceremony without breaking down. I repeated my now-familiar words: “Your countrymen owe you their freedom and their security. They sleep safely at night and pursue their dreams during the day because you stand the watch and protect them.… You are the best America has to offer. My admiration and affection for you is without limit, and I will think about you and your families and pray for you every day for the rest of my life. God bless you.” I am eligible to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery. I have asked to be buried in Section 60, where so many of the fallen from Iraq and Afghanistan have been laid to rest. The greatest honor possible would be to rest among my heroes for all eternity.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Farewell address, US Secretary of Defense, 2011
He expresses deep gratitude and admiration for military personnel, wishing to be buried among them.
In simple terms: He honors service members and wishes to rest with them.
Key Takeaway
Show gratitude to those who protect us.
Themes
service
gratitude
legacy
Mood
respectful
honoring
Type
commemorative
personal
When to use this quote
- memorial planning
- public gratitude
- military ceremonies
Key Concepts
military honor
personal sacrifice
Questions to Reflect On
- What does honoring service members mean to you?
- How can civilians support the military beyond words?
A Different Perspective
Personal sentiment may not reflect broader policy.
