This is one of the biggest weekends for holiday travel. People visit family and friends all over the country. They also buy flowers and visit cemeteries to remember loved ones, and many fly Old Glory.
Memorial Day gives us a chance to remember those who have gone before us, but it is intended as an occasion to honor those who have made great sacrifices so that we can enjoy the freedoms we too often take for granted.
People have given so much of themselves, even their lives, so that we can live freely, so that we can exercise our rights. Their families also deserve our thanks and our condolences. I am eternally grateful to those who have served, and those who currently serve this country so faithfully.
Let’s remember our heroes but let’s also remember that it is our duty to honor our Constitution and to defend freedom here at home, so the sacrifices of our loyal brother’s and sisters won’t be in vain. Let’s honor them, but let’s also do whatever it takes to make them proud.
We displayed our flags with pride after September 11, 2001. We ran out to buy flags in record quantities. Sadly, that pride seems to have dwindled, even as our troops fight with intense pride.
If you love this country, defend it; teach your children the value of freedom. Teach them to appreciate the great sacrifices that have been made so they can live in the best country in the world. Unfortunately, many kids will not hear much about Memorial Day or heroes at school any more. Family may be the only resource they have for learning to appreciate the service of brave men and women or even to learn what Memorial Day means.
Nobody wants war but we owe a debt to those who fought -and who fight- in our stead. The least we can do is honor them for their service.
Support our troops and God bless America.