Vice President Mike Pence welcomed a group of roughly 70 veterans to his home on Memorial Day prior to the start of the annual Project Hero bike ride.

“You know it’s written if you owe debts, pay debts. If honor, then honor. If respect, then respect,” Pence began. “There is a day in November when we remember those who served and came home. But I know all of you know better than I ever will that this is a day we remember those who served and did not come home.”

Second Lady Karen Pence joined him as he addressed the riders.

He took a moment to tell those gathered at their house how much it meant to them to be able to welcome the service men and women.

“To be able to welcome you heroes here–all of you who’ve worn the uniform of the United States, and many of whom who’ve worn the uniform law enforcement and have worn in your own bodies and in your own minds the burdens that comes with that service. To be able to welcome you here on this most hallowed of days is profoundly humbling to Karen and I.”

“So I say to each one of you thank you for your service,” VPOTUS continued. “You make this place better for you being here today and you honor us all.”

Pence noted that he and his wife would be joining the president at Arlington National Cemetery in a few moments, but joked that they were slightly jealous they could not join the group on their ride.

“We wish you Godspeed, safe travels all the way to Virginia Beach and for Project Hero and all of those that it helps all the way to a full recovery in an America that cherishes all those who serve.”