Memorial Day weekend is upon us which is a sure sign summer’s almost here and kids everywhere are counting the days until the end of the school year while planning what they’ll do over the summer. All of us look forward to having a three-day weekend, whether it’s what sales at local malls to take advantage of, make a trek to the beach or enjoy a dip in the swimming pool. Grills will be fired up for burgers, hotdogs, and other culinary delights for gatherings of friends and families.
Memorial Day has a much deeper meaning for many Americans, however. For them, it’s a time to pause, reflect, and remember those paid the ultimate sacrifice to secure our freedom. Over 1.3 million men and women have lost their lives in all US wars enabling us to enjoy that freedom however we choose to do so. Another 1.5 million were wounded in some way and over 38,000 went missing in action during these wars.
Enjoy your holiday, I will be spending it with family, but take a few minutes to remember those who served in the armed services and gave us the gift of our freedom. Better yet, thank someone you may know for their service, past or present, and let them know you are grateful for their sacrifice. They’ll appreciate your acknowledgement because it matters. I’ll be thanking my dad and sister. Freedom isn’t free as almost 3 million men and women can attest.
Happy Memorial Day!
