CME Issues Statement Supporting VA Expansion of Veterans Legacy Memorial to Include Veterans Buried Overseas

By CME Press Room | Published April 23, 2025

The Coalition for Military Excellence (CME), a national organization dedicated to advocating for veterans and military excellence in the U.S. armed forces, commends the Department of Veterans Affairs for its decision to expand the Veterans Legacy Memorial (VLM) to include over 210,000 U.S. veterans interred in cemeteries overseas. The Coalition issued the following statements:  

“For too long, the stories of Americans buried in foreign lands, who fought and died to liberate allied nations and defend our national interests, have remained beyond the reach of many loved ones and fellow American citizens. By including veterans honored by the American Battle Monuments Commission in the VLM, the VA ensures that their sacrifice is not only remembered but preserved for generations to come,” said Amber Smith, CME Military Liaison, combat veteran, and former U.S. Army OH-58D Kiowa Warrior helicopter pilot and air mission commander in the 101st Airborne Division.

“This move from the VA exemplifies the values of strength, service, and excellence that are the backbone of our military and its veterans. Honoring the fallen is not confined by borders. Every veteran’s story deserves to be told, and this digital memorial provides families and communities the opportunity to ensure that legacy lives on. This Memorial Day, and every day, we honor our fallen service members,” said Meaghan Mobbs, CME Policy Liaison and former paratrooper and combat veteran.

“This expansion of the VLM underscores the importance of preserving and sharing the stories of those who served, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. As the nation reflects on the meaning of service and remembrance, efforts like this play a crucial role in connecting future generations to the legacy of military service. Honoring veterans should be a collective, ongoing commitment—one that transcends time and geography, and reinforces the values of courage, duty, and sacrifice at the heart of our national identity,” said Nico Melendez, CME Military Liaison and 34-year Navy veteran who previously deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

The Coalition for Military Excellence (CME) is a national organization dedicated to advocating for veterans and military excellence in the U.S. armed forces. CME is committed to combating policies and practices that undermine military excellence and threaten veteran support services. CME’s mission is to ensure the United States military remains focused on our nation's security through merit, strength, and excellence, while advocating for veteran rights, benefits, and resources.

CME has a roster of experienced, veteran and military surrogates available for comment or interview. If you're interested in getting their unique perspectives for your coverage, please email inquiries@militaryexcellence.org.