“For those who fight for it, life and freedom have a meaning the protected will never know”
Each Memorial Day I think of the millions of souls who made the ultimate sacrifice, giving those words undeniable significance. As Veterans we don’t think of ourselves as special, but it takes a special person to volunteer to go into harms way so that others may go on about their daily lives without fear of oppression.
Our position as the world’s leading superpower has been earned through hard work, determination, guts, and ingenuity. It’s maintained and preserved by those sworn to protect and defend it.
Their contributions were and are immeasurable. From Valley Forge to the war against Islamofascist terrorism, Americans can sleep well knowing that their Soldiers are at the frontlines.
My Grandfather fought in World War II. I enlisted in the United States Army the year he officially retired—1976. It was a symbolic changing of the guard and I was proud to follow in the footsteps of his combat boots. Until I retired in 2006, I had the privilege of serving in peace and war, with some of the finest people ever to wear the uniform. Some of them did not come home, and I will never forget them.
With apologies to Rupert Brooke:
If I should die, think only this of me:
That there’s some corner of a foreign field
That is for ever America.
A big salute to all the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard veterans, as well as those still serving.
How Memorial Day came to be.
While you’re enjoying your bar-b-que and beer, take a moment to remember those who gave their lives so that you can enjoy this day in peace.
Try to attend your local Memorial Day parade, stop by your VFW or American Legion, and hoist a few drinks in memory of our fallen comrades.
Duty, Honor, Country
HOOAH!
SFC MAC
Related articles
- Memorial Day To-Do List (06880danwoog.com)
very much worth the read:
http://burnpit.us/2010/12/guest-post-lt-gen-kelly-two-stood-their-ground
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Ya done good. A Big HOOAH! back to you SFCMAC.
They all deserve our eternal gratitude. May they all be at peace with their creator.