Ahead of Memorial Day, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) addressed the Senate floor to emphasize the importance of honoring those who have sacrificed their lives for the country. He highlighted the story of Thomas Forest Riddle, a soldier from Indiana whose service is commemorated by a statue at his gravesite in Monroe County.
Senator Young remarked on the statue’s condition, saying, “Today, he shows wear – the brim of his hat is broken, the bayonet from his rifle is lost, part of his ear is missing and so are a few fingers. But Private Thomas Forest Riddle stands once more, and his memory remains. His watch continues, and our gratitude goes on. We remember Private Riddle and all who have given their lives for our freedom on this Memorial Day.”
Young recounted Private Riddle’s journey during World War I. After enlisting in 1917, Riddle was deployed to France with Company D of the 12th Machine Gun Battalion. He participated in significant battles such as Chateau Thierry and Meuse-Argonne but returned home weakened by gas exposure and shell shock. Tragically, he succumbed to influenza shortly after returning.
The senator shared how Riddle’s grandmother commissioned a limestone statue to honor him and how vandals later destroyed it in 2004. Edith Clark, Pleasant View Cemetery’s caretaker, restored it with community support.
Senator Young emphasized that remembering fallen soldiers is crucial: “We do not glory in war, but we do honor the glorious deeds of the men and women who…are called to defend our liberties.” He noted that communities like Unionville demonstrate America’s gratitude by preserving these memorials.
He concluded by urging Americans to reflect on these sacrifices during Memorial Day.
