Central ND News

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) are leading an effort calling on the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate the recent defacement of the Los Angeles National Cemetery by pro-Palestinian protesters. The senators are urging for the perpetrators to be held accountable for violating federal law.

"Veterans represent the best of America. The men and women who serve in the U.S. military exemplify the sacrifice, determination, and bravery that all Americans should strive for," wrote Hoeven and Rubio in a joint statement. "Like those currently serving in our military, the veterans buried at the Los Angeles National Cemetery fought to protect the fundamental rights of all Americans in countless wars, even the rights of Americans who lack the moral clarity to condemn terrorism. Pro-Hamas radicals and terrorist sympathizers must immediately face consequences for their immoral and illegal tactics."

The Los Angeles National Cemetery, operated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, is the final resting place for over 80,000 veterans. It serves as a solemn tribute to those who have served their country and defended the rights and freedoms that all Americans enjoy.

The defacement of the cemetery by pro-Palestinian protesters is a serious act that has sparked outrage among lawmakers. Senator Hoeven and Senator Rubio are joined by a group of 14 other Senators who co-signed the letter to the Department of Justice, including U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), James Risch (R-Idaho), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), and Susan Collins (R-Maine).

The senators are united in their call for a thorough investigation into the defacement of the cemetery and for the perpetrators to face the consequences of their actions. The letter, which outlines the senators' concerns and demands for justice, can be found here.

Defacing a cemetery that serves as a memorial to the brave men and women who have served their country is not only a violation of federal law but also a deeply disrespectful act. It undermines the sacrifices made by veterans and their families and tarnishes the memory of those who gave their lives in service to the nation.

The senators' call for an investigation and accountability demonstrates their commitment to upholding the values and principles that our veterans fought to protect. It sends a clear message that such acts of vandalism will not be tolerated and that those responsible will be held responsible for their actions.

As the investigation unfolds, it is important to remember the significance of the Los Angeles National Cemetery and the importance of honoring the memory of those who have served. The cemetery serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans and the debt of gratitude that we owe them.

The defacement of the cemetery is a stark reminder that there are those who seek to undermine the values and freedoms that our veterans fought to defend. It is essential that we stand together as a nation to condemn such acts and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

In the face of this despicable act, Senator Hoeven, Senator Rubio, and their colleagues have shown leadership and determination in seeking justice for the defacement of the Los Angeles National Cemetery. Their call for an investigation is a testament to their unwavering support for our veterans and their commitment to preserving the sanctity of their final resting place.