DIA wreath laying ceremony honors agency’s lost members

A wreath laying ceremony was conducted at the Patriots Memorial in DIA headquarters on May 22 to remember the fallen and honor agency employees who died in service to the United States.

Deputy Director David Shedd presided over the ceremony as part of an observance for Memorial Day at the start of the holiday weekend.

“They loved our country and the principles of freedom and democracy it represents,” said DIA chaplain Lt. Col. Kenneth Brown, according to an article posted on the DIA Web site. “Freedom is not a privilege; freedom is not free; freedom has a price. Freedom requires sacrifice, commitment and service.”

A total of 25 DIA men and women have lost their lives around the globe in defense of the nation, including seven who perished in the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon.

“We will never forget the sacrifices of those who have paid the ultimate price for our country, those whose sacrifice keeps our nation free,” added Brown.

Memorial Day is a national day of remembrance that pays tribute to those who have given their lives in service of our nation in all wars and conflicts. The holiday was formerly known as Decoration Day and originated shortly after the American Civil War.