137 years later Memorial Day remains one of America's most cherished patriotic observances. The spirit of this day has not changed - it remains a day to honor those who died defending our freedom and democracy.

The liberties of our country the freedom of our civil constitution are worth defending against all hazards: And it is our duty to defend them against all attacks.

In the long history of the world only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility - I welcome it.

Is there an equality of power between America and Iraq? Definitely not however the Iraqi people are standing fast and are defending their land courageously.

I stood up as best I could to their disgusting stupidity and brutality but I did not of course manage to beat them at their own game. It was a fight to the bitter end one in which I was not defending ideals or beliefs but simply my own self.

I spend a good portion of my dinner-party conversation defending America because no matter what the political agenda it's still a fantastic amazing place.