PORT ORANGE -- In our busy lives, it can be difficult for us to step back and take stock of what’s really important. Our day-to-day concerns often override what truly matters. Despite these obstacles, I hope you’ll join me this Memorial Day in thinking of our nation’s many heroes and honoring their sacrifices.
My father, who earned a Purple Heart as an infantryman in Europe during World War II, was fortunate to safely return home to tend to his injuries.
But in that war, and in others throughout our nation’s history, many brave Americans made the ultimate sacrifice to keep us safe. That is why we have set aside a day of public remembrance in their honor.
Memorial Day was originally celebrated after the Civil War to recognize union soldiers who had been killed in action, but it rightfully now recognizes all Americans who have died while wearing the uniform of our nation’s armed services.
As your state representative in Tallahassee, I’ve tried to do my part to honor those soldiers who gave all in the service of our nation. This year I helped pass legislation to help lessen the burden for military families by providing tax relief.
If approved by the voters this November, this legislation will create a permanent homestead exemption for surviving spouses of active-duty troops who are killed in action.
I support this legislation because I believe we have a duty to help the families of these fallen soldiers in every way we can.
In honor of Memorial Day, I will be taking part in a public celebration in Daytona Beach. God bless all of our troops, past and present, whose heroic sacrifices shelter us from harm. We will keep them and their families in our prayers.
Editor's Note: State Rep. Dorothy L. Hukill, R-Port Orange, represents southeast Volusia County in the Florida House of Representatives. She is a candidate for State Senate. She can be reached by email at dorothy@dorothyhukill.com or on her Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/dorothyhukill.
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