A Memorial Day Perspective

As a veteran, Memorial Day holds a special place in my heart. Now before you think I am all patriotic, I will be grilling burgers today and cleaning out my car.  

Almost 40 years ago, on a whim, I joined the Air Force. A friend had told me of her life experience travelling around the world courtesy of the Air Force.  It wasn't long before I was signed up and ready to go -- to Georgia -- from South Carolina,  So that's the story - but here is the rest of the story.

During the 6-month period that it took from the immediate interview to the actual signature, there was a lot of thinking to do. I was about to sign my life over to someone else, someone else that I was to do whatever they said, no matter what. Stop and think about that -- You will do whatever someone tells you to do regardless of how you "feel" about it.  Would you do that for your best friend? Would you do that for the person you work for? Would you do that for the government? Take a break think about that ~ I did.

I made the decision to do just that.  To become part of the people who decide serving your country is a good thing and do my part in it. All that being said, here's  to the group that I decided to become a part of 40 years ago.

This is a day to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. I have known some of these people and served along side some of these people. It's a day to reflect on the sacrifices of those who served alongside us, and to pay tribute to the families who have lost loved ones in service. 

For many veterans, Memorial Day is a time of mixed emotions. It's a day of sadness and grief, as we remember the friends and comrades we lost in battle. But it's also a day of pride and gratitude, as we honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who gave their lives for our country. As we gather with family and friends on Memorial Day, it's important to remember the true meaning of the holiday. It's not just a day off from work or an excuse to have a barbecue. It's a day to honor the fallen and to show our support for the families they left behind. One way to honor the fallen is to attend a Memorial Day ceremony or parade. These events are held across the country and provide an opportunity to pay tribute to those who served and sacrificed for our country. It's a chance to hear the stories of those who gave their lives and to show our appreciation for their service. 

Another way to honor the fallen is to visit a military cemetery or memorial. These sites are a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our service members and their families. By visiting these sites, we can pay our respects and show our gratitude for their service and sacrifice. For veterans, Memorial Day is also a time to connect with fellow service members and to share our experiences. It's a time to remember the bonds we formed in service and to honor the memories of those who served alongside us. Whether it's attending a veterans' event or simply reaching out to a fellow veteran, it's important to stay connected and to support one another. In conclusion, Memorial Day is a day of remembrance and gratitude for veterans and their families. It's a time to honor the fallen and to show our support for those who have sacrificed so much for our country. As we gather with loved ones on this special day, let us remember the true meaning of the holiday and pay tribute to those who gave their lives for our freedom.

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