While we take time on Memorial Day weekend to spend with family and friends (as much as we can with social distancing anyway), take time to remember those who have sacrificed all for our liberty. Take time to care and encourage the families of the fallen, and thank those who are currently serving as well.
I remember several years ago while I was at Washington Reagan National Airport there was an Army unit who had returned home from the war in Iraq. Those present gave them a standing ovation when they came out of the gate. I also thought of those who never returned home. We need to honor our dead, but also must honor the living as well. It was such simple thing to do to let those who are serving in uniform know that we honor and support them. I try to always take the time when I see someone in uniform to thank them for their service. We should also consider how we can serve their families of those deployed as they need support when their loved one is serving overseas.
In honoring those who served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice, let’s keep in mind this version of a popular poem. I changed the words from “given us” to “secured our,” as our rights come from God, but they have been secured by the sacrifice of those who fought for those freedoms.
It is the veteran, not the preacher, who has secured our freedom of religion.
It is the veteran, not the reporter, who has secured our freedom of the press.
It is the veteran, not the poet, who has secured our freedom of speech.
It is the veteran, not the campus organizer, who has secured our freedom to assemble.
It is the veteran, not the lawyer, who has secured our right to a fair trial.
It is the veteran, not the politician, who has secured our right to vote.
It is the veteran, who salutes the flag, who serves under the flag, and whose coffin will be draped by the flag.
Remember and honor all of our veterans.