(Laurel, Mont.) - U.S. Senator Jon Tester today spoke at the Yellowstone National Cemetery to honor the men and women who lost their lives in service to this nation. 

During Tester's speech, he honored several Montanans who had given their lives to protect our freedoms. 

"So many Montanans have and continue to answer the call to serve when America needs them most. These courageous men and women know the value of freedom and understand what it means to sacrifice to protect it," said Tester, Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee. "We are here today to honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. I can't think of a better place to honor the men and women who gave their lives than the only nationally recognized veterans' burial ground in Montana. The Yellowstone National Cemetery is a testament to the sacrifice of Montana's bravest."

In 2014, Tester helped designate the Yellowstone Cemetery as a National Cemetery where service members and their families can be laid to rest. 

To read Tester's entire Memorial Day speech click HERE.