As the unofficial start to summer, Memorial Day often brings with it barbecues, family gatherings, and long-awaited vacations. Yet beneath the sunshine and festivities lies a solemn and profound truth: Memorial Day is a sacred time of remembrance. It’s a day when we, as Americans, pause to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.
Memorial Day is not simply a long weekend but a national day of mourning and gratitude. From the Revolutionary War to the most recent conflicts overseas, countless Americans have laid down their lives so others might live free. Their sacrifice forms the bedrock of our liberties, democracy, and the peace we often take for granted.
These heroes came from every corner of the nation, from every background and creed. What united them was a deep belief in something greater than themselves: the promise of America. They fought not for fame or recognition, but for the people they left behind including their families, their communities, and future generations who would never know their names but would live under the flag they defended.
On Memorial Day, we are called to do more than simply remember, but also reflect. Take a moment to visit a local veterans’ cemetery, attend a memorial service, or simply observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 PM local time. Let the silence echo the lives lost and the weight of their absence.
Talk to veterans. Listen to their stories. Teach your children not just the history of war, but the humanity of those who serve. By passing on these lessons, we ensure that the stories of our fallen heroes are never forgotten, and their sacrifices never taken for granted.
I’m so proud of my two sons who gave over almost 5 decades of their lives to the United States Air Force. Deployment in time of war is not only hell for the soldiers but also for their families at home. Those lucky enough to return are forever changed, mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Veterans and their families also need our prayers long after their service is complete. War is hell.
I’m also proud of My Mysterious Marine, HHH. Serving in the 70’s wasn’t always the easiest for a young man and his brand-new family. Thank you for all the sacrifices you made then, and your continued life of excellence as the Marine you’ll always be.
We owe them more than thanks. We owe them our commitment to live lives worthy of their sacrifice. That means building a more perfect union grounded in respect, service, justice, and unity. It means caring for those who return from war, supporting the families of the fallen, and standing up for the values they fought and died defending.
This Memorial Day, let us bow our heads not only in sorrow, but in gratitude. Let us remember not only the lives lost, but the ideals they fought to protect. Let us live not just for ourselves, but for the legacy they left behind.
Because freedom isn’t free and the cost has been paid in the lives of our finest.
May we never forget.