As we mark these solemn days, we pay tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in faraway lands, to heroes who died in the line of duty here at home, and to all who keep faith with the principles of service and sacrifice that will always be the source of America's strength.
There had been speculation that Hussein would be executed before Eid Al-Adha -- a holiday period that means Feast oftheSacrifice, celebrated by Muslims around the world atthe climax ofthe hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.