Memorial Day 2010

I am not a veteran of our nation’s armed forces. I have relatives who proudly served our country in uniform, but I have not. However, I remember their service. I remember speaking with them about war, and death, and friends who did not return home. I remember them speaking about freedom, service, and patriotism. Four years of high school Navy JROTC reinforced in me a powerful love of country. I still get a tightness in my chest when the National Anthem is played. I still get angry to see people talking, laughing, and wearing their hats as the flag passes by. Call me a sentimental fool; but I think many have lost their patriotism and their gratitude for our freedom and its cost.

Memorial Day is a day set aside to remember all those who died in America’s wars to secure our freedom. It is a day to reflect on the cost of freedom, and to pay tribute to those who fearlessly guard it every day. Many will not give freedom or country a single thought this Memorial Day weekend. They will blissfully enjoy a long weekend of summer fun and ignore the meaning of this day. The freedom they ignorantly enjoy and take for granted is secured by those who lay their lives on the line for the rest of us.

This Memorial Day, take time to remember. Take time to be thankful. Take the time to observe our flag waving in the sun, and reflect on all for which it stands.