May 30th is the day we will officially recognize and observe Memorial Day. Interestingly, this day used to be referred to as Decoration Day and was the day we remember those who had given their lives in the nation's service and the day we decorated their grave sites. Many towns hold services and in Bethel, Connecticut we hold memorial services and a traditional home town parade. As a Vietnam Era veteran, I find it increasingly important to pay respect to those who have given their lives so I can enjoy the freedoms I am priviledged to have. Maybe its my age, maybe its observing how young our people in the armed forces appear to be (we were too), maybe its about knowing how invincible and immortal they feel (great military training), maybe its now how much they love this country and are willing to lay down their lives to protect our freedoms.
We are all blessed to be in this country. Anyone who has had to opportunity to visit other countries, to study other ideologies, to understand other cultures, knows the advantage of being an American and also knows and understands how the world has changed dramatically in how others see us as well. All things considered, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.
I truly respect all of you who have served, are serving, or will be in the service of this country. Its an awesome job, its incredibly rewarding, its dangerous, but you grow up with a whole different perspective of what your freedoms are worth and what you are willing to pay for them. I am constantly reminded that freedom isn't free. I have a very high degree of respect and admiration for your sacrifices and will make sure you are all remembered on this Memorial Day and every day I enjoy my freedoms.
No comments:
Post a Comment