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# DLA Distribution commander delivers remarks during New Cumberland Memorial Day event

By Thomas ZimmermanDLA Distribution Public Affairs

                NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa.   –              
(EDITORS NOTE: Navy Rear Adm. Grafton D. Chase, commander, Defense Logistics Agency Distribution, spoke as part of the 2024 New Cumberland Memorial Day event, May 27. These are his remarks as prepared.) 

Distinguished guests, ladies, and gentlemen, I am truly honored to be speaking to you today as we pause to remember our shipmates, our battle buddies, our sisters and brothers in arms who gave the ultimate sacrifice.A big thanks to Christine Leukus and the New Cumberland Olde Towne Association, American Legion Posts #143 and #974, and VFW Post #7415 for organizing this Memorial Day event!I would like to recognize our Gold Star Family members, a title reserved for families of military members who have died in the line of duty, meant to honor the service member’s ultimate sacrifice while acknowledging their family’s loss, grief, and continued healing. My heart goes out to you.Additionally, I would like to recognize all currently serving military members and veterans in the audience, thank you for your service.In particular, the Grand Marshall of today’s event, retired Army Corporal Herbie Kern, who served our nation with great distinction as a medic during the Korean War. Sir, thank you for your service.I would also like to recognize all World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam veterans in the audience. You are an inspiration to us all, and I am honored to have followed in your footsteps.As mentioned in my introduction, I am the commander of Defense Logistics Agency Distribution, headquartered here in New Cumberland on the Defense Distribution Center Susquehanna complex.On behalf of the more than 4,000 employees on our installation, I would like to thank all of you for your continued support to our mission and our employees.It is a profound privilege to stand before you today on this Memorial Day, my last one in uniform before I mark the end of a 38-year career this Friday.But today is not about me. Today, we not only pay tribute to those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our nation but also commemorate a significant milestone in our shared history—the 80th anniversary of D-Day.On June 6, 1944, the world witnessed one of the most pivotal and heroic military operations in history. The Normandy landings, known as D-day, marked the beginning of the end of World War II. It was a day that tested the resolve, courage, and tenacity of thousands of young men and women, many of whom hailed from the commonwealth of Pennsylvania.As we reflect on the events of that day, let us remember the sheer scale of the operation. More than 150,000 allied troops from the United States, Great Britain, Canada, and other nations stormed the beaches of Normandy. This massive operation, codenamed Operation Overlord, was meticulously planned and executed under the command of General Dwight Eisenhower, a graduate of the U.S. Army War College, now located down the road in Carlisle.It is Pennsylvania’s own sons and daughters whose contributions and sacrifices we highlight today. The Keystone State, known for its rich history and pivotal role in the birth of our nation, played an equally significant role during World War II.From the rolling farmlands to the bustling industrial cities, Pennsylvanians from all walks of life answered the call to serve. More than one million Pennsylvanians served in the armed forces during World War II. Of the more than 407,000 who died during the war, 33,000 of them were from Pennsylvania. These brave men and women fought on land, at sea, and in the air, displaying valor and determination in every theater of the war.On D-day, Soldiers from Pennsylvania were among the first to storm the beaches of Normandy. They fought with unparalleled bravery, many making the ultimate sacrifice on that hallowed ground.One such hero was Army Major Richard D. Winters, born in New Holland, Pennsylvania. As a member of the Army’s 101st Airborne Division, Winters played a crucial role in the success of the D-day landings. His leadership during the assault on Brecourt Manor, where he and his men neutralized a battery of German artillery, has become legendary. Major Winters’ story is but one example of the countless acts of heroism demonstrated by Pennsylvanians during the war.Beyond the battlefield, Pennsylvania’s contributions to the war effort were substantial and multifaceted. The state’s industrial might was a cornerstone of the allied victory. Factories in cities like Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and Erie churned out essential war materials, from steel and munitions to tanks and aircraft.The famous Rosie the Riveter, a symbol of the women who worked in factories during the war, had countless counterparts in Pennsylvania. These women, along with their male counterparts, worked tirelessly to ensure that our troops had the equipment they needed to succeed.Pennsylvania’s agricultural sector also played a critical role in supporting the war effort. Farmers across the state increased production to provide food for both the military and civilian populations. The ingenuity and hard work of Pennsylvania’s farmers ensured that the warfighters on the front lines had the sustenance they needed to carry on their fight.As we stand here today, 80 years after D-day, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of those who served. The values they fought for—freedom, democracy, and the right to live in peace—remain the bedrock of our society.Their sacrifices are a stark reminder of the cost of these ideals, and it is our duty to honor their memory by preserving and protecting them for future generations.We are also reminded of the importance of unity and collective effort. The success of D-day was not the result of a single nation, but of a coalition of allies working together toward a common goal.This spirit of cooperation and solidarity is something we must strive to maintain in our world today. In an era where division and discord can seem all too prevalent, the lessons of D-day remind us of the strength that comes from unity.As we remember the heroes of D-day and the broader contributions of Pennsylvania to World War II, let us also recognize the continued service and sacrifice of our military personnel.Today, the men and women of our armed forces continue to stand watch around the globe, upholding the legacy of those who came before them. They carry with them the same spirit of courage, dedication, and honor that defined the generation of World War II.On this Memorial Day, let us take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by so many for the freedoms we enjoy today. Let us honor the memories of those who did not return and let us extend our deepest gratitude to the veterans and their families who have given so much. Their sacrifices have shaped our nation and secured our future.We must also recognize the role of communities like New Cumberland in supporting our service members. Your unwavering support, whether through volunteering, offering a kind word, or simply remembering and honoring our veterans, is invaluable. It is through this support that we keep the spirit of service and sacrifice alive.In conclusion, let us renew our commitment to the principles for which so many have fought and died. Let us strive to build a world that honors their sacrifice by fostering peace, justice, and freedom for all.We are able to raise families, continue careers and live good lives because of the sacrifices made by young men and women who never came home.We must always remember them. May they all rest in peace.Thank you for being here and thank you for your support. God bless America.

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