McDonald on Veterans Day: ‘I Hope, in Your Eyes, I Have Earned What All of You Have Done for Me’

“In the last scene of Spielberg's 'Saving Private Ryan', the aging Private Ryan kneels reverently in front of Captain Miller’s grave. Captain Miller gave his life in combat to save Private Ryan's. Ryan says to Miller and all veterans, 'I have tried to live my life the best I could. I hope that, at least in your eyes, I have earned what all of you have done for me.' I am a veteran. When I come to Arlington, I imagine myself saying that to every veteran resting here. I hope that, in your eyes, I have earned what all of you have done for me."