Memorial Day – Not Just Another Day
This weekend is Memorial Day weekend… a weekend that typically includes barbecues, picnics, trips, hangouts and lots of other “holiday weekend” events. Memorial Day, however, is not just another day. So often we are consumed by our busyness, our schedule, our “to do’s” and we don’t stop and think about others and their sacrifices. Memorial Day is a day where we should stop and give thanks to those who have and do serve in our military and those who have died for us, our country and our freedom. We must remember them, for if we forget the fallen, their death is in vain. POW/MIA/KIA Never Forgotten.
Memorial Day brings to mind many of the sacrifices that I’ve heard about from battle-stories and it reminds me of the many military funerals that I’ve attended as a volunteer member of the Patriot Guard Riders. Many men and women of our great nation have fought and died for us. Can you imagine dying? Can you imagine dying for someone else? Your death means that someone, or many others, may have life. Can you grasp the scope of your sacrifice? It’s difficult, but important to think about.
Compare the sacrifice of a soldier to our greatest model and example of a TrueMan, Jesus. Jesus was a servant of the people. He gave willingly of Himself and His efforts. He was a servant-leader, leading by example of how to treat others. He took time to prepare for the tough times (prayer/fasting), and was always prepared to give an account of His reasonings. Our military men and women do this on a daily basis. Thank a soldier today.
I posted this over a year ago on my family blog to my family members and friends… a Thanks.
Most of all, Grandpa Tony. You are my hero Dad. I love you. Thank you for my freedom. You are a wonderful Grandpa to Lily. 30 years in the Air Force is amazing. To me, two tours in Viet Nam is even more amazing. We’re proud of you SMSgt.
Grandpa Gary… thank you for your 20 years in the Air Force. We will always tell Lily about the sacrifices you made for our country. Now, as you ride for the Patriot Guard, I am so proud to call you Dad. I can’t wait until I am able to join up and ride with you to honor our fallen service men and women. Thanks SMSgt.
Major (Select) Uncle Andy… You are a great man. I am proud to call you my brother and my friend. So far, 9 years in Active Duty, 4 years at the Academy. Two tours in Operation Iraqi Freedom and one coming soon. Thank you so much.
Major Aunt Laura… I am honored to be your brother, and for you to be my brother’s wife. Thanks for your sacrifices. You are setting a great example for your daughters.
Captain Tracy… 20+ yrs of saving lives and property, along with protecting our Marines at Quantico. What an amazing sacrifice you make. Thank you for protecting the American people. You are an inspiration to me.
Uncles Richard, Frank, Bob U., Ray, Randy D. and Roy D.… thank you all for your time of service. My daughters will know about what you did for us.
Shawn O’D… your sacrifice doesn’t go unnoticed. Thank you so much.
Jobe M… I didn’t forget about you. Rick W… You either. Our sailors.
To our friends: Lt Kuetemeyer, Lt. Col. Waller, Chief Laura, Sgt. Ric, Officers Griffiths, Lts. Alberico, Hale, Patino, Valle, Hunt and the others that we know… you are all so amazing. If I forgot anyone, I am truly sorry.
Man up!
