Dear Colleagues,
 
For all of us, Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, where we begin to gather with family, friends and community to barbecue, enjoy the sunsets, and take in a ballgame or outdoor concert. With vaccinations on the rise and steady progress against COVID-19, we have even more reason to enjoy the summer together. But Memorial Day is about much more than picnics and pools. Often lost in the three-day-weekend is the reason we honor and celebrate Memorial Day—to remember those who have died serving our nation as part of the U.S. Armed Forces.

To all of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, we are deeply and forever grateful.

To all of those who have lost a loved one, especially a spouse or a child, we honor you.

And to those who have served or continue to serve, we thank you for your service.

USDA is proud to have several memorials at buildings across the country honoring those who have served and lost their lives. At the Whitten Building in Washington, D.C., in the main patio, is a stone carving memorializing 69 names, including one Silver Star and three Distinguished Service Cross recipients who gave their lives in World War II.

We continue to honor our veterans by being a workplace that provides career opportunities for those who’ve served. Today, more than 11,000 U.S. military veterans are full-time USDA employees. I am committed to making sure USDA is an employer of choice for the skilled men and women from our Armed Forces.

I ask that as you gather this weekend, please lead by example—take time to remember and honor the 1.1 million military men and women who gave their lives in service to the country. Thank a veteran or active duty military member for their service. Keep the spirit of Memorial Day alive and well. 
 
Let’s remember the true meaning of this holiday—and stay safe.

Secretary Vilsack

You can also view this message at OneUSDA (internal link).