As a State Representative, it is my solemn duty and deep privilege to serve a state where patriotism and sacrifice are more than values—they are a way of life. Nowhere is this more powerfully felt than at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen.
I laid my father to rest there in 2022. That personal loss brought a deeper understanding of what this sacred ground represents—not just for me, but for generations of Granite Staters.
From the moment you arrive at the Veterans Cemetery, the experience is humbling. The grounds are immaculate—carefully maintained with a sense of reverence that reflects the honor due to those who served. The perfectly aligned headstones, the gently waving flags, the peaceful rolling hills—all convey a powerful message: here lies the best of us. It is a place of quiet dignity, where every detail speaks to our collective respect for service and sacrifice.
As Memorial Day approaches, I urge all New Hampshire residents to pause and reflect on the price of our freedom. Each headstone tells a story of courage—from the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of Afghanistan. These markers are more than names; they are lasting symbols of the cost of liberty.
When I walk those paths, I think of my father—and the countless others who rest beside him—whose lives were defined by duty, honor, and love of country. Their legacy continues to guide my work in the State House, where our chambers are adorned with flags and murals that remind us of the sacrifices made in defense of our republic.
Memorial Day is not just the unofficial start of summer. It is a solemn occasion to remember those who laid down their lives so that we may live in peace, speak freely, and pursue the promise of America. We owe them not just our thanks—but our action.
Their example challenges us to be better citizens. To vote. To serve. To care. In New Hampshire, that spirit lives on in our town halls, community gatherings, and our enduring commitment to the ideals behind our motto: Live Free or Die.
This Memorial Day, I encourage you to visit a veteran’s memorial or cemetery. Stand in silence. Read the names. Reflect on the weight of their sacrifice. As a State Representative, I remain committed to honoring their memory by advocating for our veterans, defending our freedoms, and working toward a more united and resilient nation.
This Memorial Day, let us honor their sacrifice not with words alone, but with the lives we lead—lives marked by courage, conviction, and an unshakable commitment to the ideals they died defending.
