On Monday, President Barack Obama paid tribute to the valiant men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country.

The President and the First Lady began the day with a breakfast at the White House for families who lost loved ones in combat. The President then attended a Memorial Day observance at the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery, taking part in the traditional laying of a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

President Obama said: “These 600 acres are home to Americans from every part of the country who gave their lives in every part of the globe.” He also assured Veterans that those who are returning home from battle that they will get the benefits that they are entitled to.

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta also spoke before the large audience, which included men and women in the service. He said that “all the men and women who rest here are a constant reminder that freedom is not free.”

Later that day, the President also traveled to the Vietnam War Memorial to recognize troops who served and died during that War.

During his weekly radio and Internet address, Obama shared: “We have to serve them and their families as well as they have served us… By making sure that they get the health care and benefits they need; by caring for our wounded warriors and supporting our military families; and by giving veterans the chance to go to college, find a good job and enjoy the freedom that they risked everything to protect.”