A Memorial Day Reflection

Today we remember the Americans who gave their lives in service to this country.

The best way to honor them is not only with gratitude, but with responsibility. We owe them a republic worthy of their sacrifice: one grounded in truth, accountable government, equal justice, and the steady defense of democracy itself.

Memorial Day asks us to pause, to mourn, and to remember that freedom is never self-sustaining. It is protected by those who serve, and preserved by citizens who refuse to take it for granted.

May we honor the fallen not just in words, but in how we care for the country they died defending.

Founded in 2016, The Steady State is a nonprofit 501(c)(4) organization of more than 400 former senior national security professionals. Our membership includes former officials from the CIA, FBI, Department of State, Department of Defense, and Department of Homeland Security. Drawing on deep expertise across national security disciplines, including intelligence, diplomacy, military affairs, and law, we advocate for constitutional democracy, the rule of law, and the preservation of America’s national security institutions.