Dear Friends,

Our great country is built on the sacrifice of the brave men and women who answered the call and put their lives on the line to defend something greater than themselves. Memorial Day is a time to reflect and pay our deep respects to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

There is no more noble cause than risking your life to defend the people and the virtues you hold most dear.

I want to take time this weekend to remember a central Arkansan who laid down his life in service to his country, Sergeant Michael Sturdivant of Conway, who was killed in Iraq in 2008 at just 20 years old.

While I never met Sgt. Sturdivant, I remember when he passed. Afterward, I learned his story. He was an Eagle Scout who volunteered to serve his country in its time of need as a soldier.

After her son passed, Cheryl said: "Our family believes that evil prospers when good men do nothing.” Her son was a good man who did not stand by but instead took action and stood up to do the right thing.

Just after I arrived in Washington D.C. to represent central Arkansas, I visited the gravesite of this Arkansas military hero. While standing at his grave in Arlington National Cemetery, I experienced feelings of sadness, but that sadness was tempered by pride because he believed he was fighting for a cause worth protecting with his life.

As we head into Memorial Day, take time to remember those who put on the uniform and served our country. We must never forget their service and sacrifice.

Sincerely,

Representative French Hill

Office Locations

Washington, DC Office
1533 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-2506
Fax: (202) 225-5903

Conway Office
1105 Deer Street, Suite 12
Conway, AR 72032
Phone: (501) 358-3481
Fax: (501) 358-3494

Little Rock Office
1501 N. University Ave., Suite 630
Little Rock, AR 72207
Phone: (501) 324-5941
Fax: (501) 324-6029