Often, we forget that Memorial Day is a day not for merchandise sales and or the unofficial start of Summer. But rather it is a day set aside to honor those brave men and women who have fallen in the performance of their military duties while serving in the United States armed forces.
On this solemn day there will be cemeteries all across the nation where loved ones will pay their humble respects and quiet tribute to a father, mother, sister, or brother. The loss may be fresh, or it may only be a distant but still painful memory. When I visit Arlington National Cemetery, I often see the tokens (flowers, stones, and photos) of remembrance left behind by those still grieving their loss.
Many Americans since the Revolutionary War have selflessly laid down their lives so that others may live -- a testament that freedom truly is not free and often comes indeed at a heavy price and sacrifice.
My families’ service goes back to Bunker Hill where we lost two fathers in combat -- we hope they will be the last. Over the years, many of our young men and women were sent unprepared and ill equipped into combat by armchair politicians who have never served nor seen, smelled, or tasted the horror of war.
While on active duty I would frequently visit Walter Reed Hospital and see the human toll of war -- men and women crippled and without limbs or mentally scarred for life, struggling to cope and make it to the next day. It was never a pretty sight; many would turn away rather than face the reality of their pain and suffering. I pray their sacrifices will never be forgotten nor taken for granted.
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