Memorial Day is a day I didn’t really understand until the
military became part of my life. Growing up, it was just another day off school
and a reason to have a barbeque. My family and I would go watch my WWII veteran
grandfather march in a parade, but the actual meaning of the day went right
over my head.
Now, this day means so much more to me. Now, I understand
the reason we have Memorial Day. It is not just a day off of work or school. Though
all the local pools seem to open Memorial Day weekend, it is not the official
start of summer. Though many people gather together for picnics and barbeques
and fun time together, it is not a celebration. It is a remembrance of the men
and women who gave their lives for the benefit of our country. It is a time to
honor their courage and bravery. This day is theirs, and they rightly deserve
it.
It shouldn’t have to happen. Lives shouldn’t have to be cut
short so that our country can remain strong. Families shouldn’t have to bury their
loved ones. Children shouldn’t have to grow up without their mommy or daddy. But
it does happen, all too often. And it is the duty of the rest of us to honor
the fallen for their courage and bravery, to not let their sacrifices go
unnoticed, and to remember that freedom is not free.
Today, I am so very grateful for my family. We are truly
blessed to be together and to have each other. There is no guarantee in the
military. There is no promise that the worst won’t happen. But together we hold
our hands in faith that everything happens for a reason and that no matter what, we will be okay.
On this Memorial Day, I thank the men and women who have
given their lives for our country. I honor their devotion to protecting our
freedom. I thank their families for their support and send my deepest sympathy
for their loss. But although the death of the fallen is mourned, the life that
they lived is esteemed. They are the true heroes, and we will never forget.
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