On Monday, May 30 we as a Nation celebrated Memorial Day. It is a day in which some of us (but unfortunately not very many) took the time to remember the people who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. To date, over 1.2 Million American men and women have died protecting our freedoms and our way of life. Freedom isn’t free. I like to remind folks of the phrase “Land of the free, because of the brave.”
I am convinced that everyday should be Memorial Day. Everyday we should take the time to reflect on those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Honor their memories, and pray for their Families. For the survivors, their loss is as painful today as it was the day of the tragedy. Don’t think they forgot. We shouldn’t either.
Do something to ensure future generations understand the cost of freedom. Take your children to visit National cemeteries. Within those cemeteries there are visible reminders of the true cost of freedom….the white grave markers. The markers are monuments to true American heroes. Ronald Reagan highlighted the fact that “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. “ Ensure your children, and their children, understand the sacrifices made by so many so they can be enjoy freedoms today.
As we reflect back on Memorial Day, let’s commit, as a free Nation, to do three specific things: Remember the fallen and their Families. Never take their sacrifices for granted. Learn from their selfless service.
Calvin Coolidge, our 30th President, stated that “A Nation that forgets it’s defenders will soon itself be forgotten”. Let’s ensure that doesn’t happen.