Veterans represent the character of the United States, President Obama said Sunday.
While dedicating the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial, President Obama praised U.S. servicemembers.
“America, if you want to know what real strength is, if you want to see the character of our country, a country that never quits, look at these men and women,” Obama told more than 3,100 people gathered at the dedication, according to CBS.
The memorial, which is located behind the U.S. Botanic Garden on Capitol Hill, honors both living and deceased disabled veterans from conflicts through the nation’s history.
“Let’s never rush into war, because it is America’s sons and daughters who bear the scars of war for the rest of their lives,” Obama said.
“Let us only send them into harm’s way when it’s absolutely necessary.”
Congress authorized the building of the memorial in October 2010. The fundraising goal was reached in mid-2010 before ground for it was broken on Nov. 10, 2010.
The memorial features a star-shaped fountain, reflecting pool, ceremonial frame, granite wall and grove of memorial trees.
