Michigan's Senate session on May 21, 2025, highlighted the profound sacrifices made by veterans and the urgent need for action to support them. During the meeting, a senator passionately addressed the historical contributions of Michigan's veterans, emphasizing that nearly 1.5 million men and women from the state have served in combat, with over 33,000 making the ultimate sacrifice.

The senator underscored the importance of Memorial Day, reminding attendees that it is not only a day to honor those who died in combat but also to remember all service members who have lost their lives during their service. Since 1980, the nation has seen over 60,000 military members die while serving, with a staggering 95 percent of those deaths occurring outside of combat situations. This includes a troubling statistic: since 1980, the number of veterans lost to suicide has been three to four times greater than those who died during the Vietnam War.

The senator's remarks called for a collective responsibility to honor these sacrifices by taking tangible steps to support veterans and address the mental health crisis affecting them. The discussion served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by veterans and the need for comprehensive support systems.

As Michigan moves forward, the call to action is clear: the community must rally to ensure that the sacrifices of veterans are not forgotten and that effective measures are implemented to provide the necessary support for those who have served. The session concluded with a commitment to honor these heroes through meaningful action and remembrance.