Gallagher, Crow Lead Bipartisan Sunrise Run on National Mall
Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI), alongside Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO), today led a bipartisan sunrise run on the National Mall to raise awareness for the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Memorial. Last week, Gallagher and Crow introduced the GWOT Memorial Location Act, which would authorize the establishment of a GWOT memorial in the Reserve section of the National Mall. The run took them past the three sites proposed for the memorial in this bill: Constitution Gardens, West Potomac Park and the JFK Hockey Fields. A picture of the route is below.
"This morning we ran past monuments honoring some of the greatest individuals in our country's history, from George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, to those who served in the wars of the 20th century," said Rep. Gallagher. "Just like the veterans of major wars before them, we must ensure those who served and continue to serve in the Global War on Terror are rightfully honored, and there's no place more fitting to do so than on the National Mall. I'm glad we were able to have such a strong bipartisan showing to examine proposed sites for the Global War on Terror Memorial and raise awareness about this important cause.
"The Global War on Terrorism changed the course of American history and the lives of millions of services members, first responders, and civil servants - including my own. Those of us who have served and who have worked to help our fellow veterans understand the power of place. The transformational power of a sacred location where veterans and their families can come together to reflect, remember, and heal," said Rep. Crow. "Today's run was a chance for us to come together as members of Congress, but also veterans, and raise awareness about the bill. We have a sacred duty to honor those who have selflessly served in our nation's longest war and it is charge we do not take lightly."
Background:
Gallagher and Crow were joined by Reps. Van Taylor (R-TX), Conor Lamb (D-PA), Michael Waltz (R-FL), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ), Abigail Spanberger (D-VA), Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation President Michael "Rod" Rodriguez, and local GWOT veterans.