But, let us not forgot the meaning of Memorial Day, let us not forget those that are currently fighting for our country who do not get three day weekends or much needed time off to celebrate with family and friends.
In, 1868, this day was dedicated to the fallen soldiers as flowers were placed on their graves at Arlington cemetery, some under the age of 21, who fought for the freedoms we cherish today.
Just a few years prior to this, Lincoln stood on the new dedicated cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania and spoke these words:
… that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain - that this nation under God, shall have a new birth of freedom - and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
Some soldiers survived and came home and began new lives as
citizens, but I am sure they never forgot.
Many families whose loved ones died in all the wars that
followed will never forget.
Let's not forget the millions of brave Americans who have died
in battle over the years - from the Civil War to the fighting in
Iraq and Afghanistan - to protect others, our nation, and
preserve our freedoms. The spouses, children, and parents who
visit their graves each year will never forget.
Let's not forget the loved ones of those MIA who have not found
the closure every human being needs in order to find peace and
move on. How can these families ever forget?
Let's not forget the brave men and women who became POWs. Their
strength, faith, and dedication kept them alive for weeks,
months, or years in conditions many of us would find intolerable
for one day. Those who survived will never forget.
Let's not forget the unselfish dedication troops from all
services have given to make America the great country it is
today. As they serve overseas with courage, honor, and duty,
they will witness the death of fallen comrades who they will
never forget.
Let's not forget those that dedicate their lives to protect
those on our own soil - the firefighters and the policemen who
risk their lives to safeguard our towns, cities, and states.
Those that die in the line of duty will never be forgotten.
As you fire up the grill and prepare the hamburgers and hot dogs
you will consume while laughing with your family and friends,
just take a moment to remember all of those that have given
their lives so you can enjoy all the three day weekends and
holidays with your loved ones.
On this Memorial Day, let's take that time to honor and respect
and NEVER forget those that made the ultimate sacrifice for our
nation.
IT IS THE VETERAN
It is the
VETERAN,
not the preacher,
who has given us freedom of religion.
It is the
VETERAN,
not the reporter,
who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the
VETERAN,
not the poet,
who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the
VETERAN,
not the campus organizer,
who has given us freedom to assemble.
It is the
VETERAN,
not the lawyer,
who has given us the right to a fair trial.
It is the
VETERAN,
not the politician,
Who has given us the right to vote.
It is the
VETERAN
who in life
salutes the Flag,
It is the
VETERAN
who in
death
serves under the Flag,
~ anonymous author
