Link: https://youtu.be/fIwB-PCjOsc

Video transcript:

I’m here at Arlington National Cemetery, the most hallowed place in Washington D.C. and we’re celebrating Memorial Day. You may be at a barbecue, or you may be headed out to the lake for the first time this year. But the important thing is that we recognize those who lost their lives for us to preserve our freedoms here in the United States.

There’s no more hallowed place than Arlington National Cemetery, and as Tom Cotton says in his new book, Sacred Duty, there’s no more important task than the traditions and respect we pay for those who are buried here in Arlington.

I’m here paying attention to this particular grave today of Henry Johnson (pictured below). Henry served in the National Guard in New York. He was the first black soldier to be awarded the Croix de Guerre for his valor in World War One, 100 years ago.

He was in the tranches for a hundred and sixty-one days. Despite twenty-one wounds he was able to save his guard patrol from a German attack in the trenches. A very brave guy.

President Clinton and President Obama recognized him with the Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart long after Mr. Johnson’s death. And that’s why I’ve introduced legislation in the Congress, H.R. 2249, the World War I Valor Medals Review Act, to honor our African American soldiers from World War One, our Native American Soldiers from World War One, and our Jewish Americans who served in World War One--who wore the uniform, defended liberty in Europe, and yet were denied their honors, their decorations for valor, for serving their country. I’m proud to support this legislation.

We have one of our own, Leroy Johnston, in Arkansas who fought and served in World War One. Long after his death, a hundred years after his death, I presented his decorations for valor to his family last year.

An African-American World War I veteran and Pine Bluff native, Leroy Johnston (right) is shown with two of his brothers, Drs. D.A.E. (left) and L.H. (center) Johnston. Rep. Hill and his staff members worked to ensure that Johnston’s finally received his long overdue medals.

Staff of Congressman Hill present Private Johnston's overdue medals to his family.

And that’s why we need to honor our American soldiers, no matter their race, no matter their religion that served us bravely.

So, as you’re at the lake this weekend or having a barbecue remember. Remember those who served us in all the wars past. From the Revolutionary War all the way to the War on Terrorism that we fight today. God bless you, and God bless your family and salute those who we honor this Memorial Day.

Sincerely,

Representative French Hill