A Memorial Day Remembrance

Memorial Day is a holiday that can come and go without a lot of fanfare. Schools are letting out for the summer, it is the unofficial start of the vacation season, and our hectic days get filled up with all sorts of family activities. All of these things, and many more, we enjoy because of our status as a nation that is free.

That freedom didn't happen by accident or chance. The freedoms that we enjoy were hard won, paid for at a dear price. Our freedoms were bought with blood and sacrifice. Men and women laid down their lives so that we can live as we want.

On this day, we pause briefly to remember those who have died so we can be free. A moment out of a busy schedule, a nod to those that have given all, a brief respite in our otherwise hectic routines.

Those that have given the ultimate sacrifice so that we can be free are owed our undying gratitude. As individuals and as a nation, we stand upon the shoulders of these giants. Our freedom cost them everything.

And for that, we stop and remember you and your sacrifice.

Thank you is not enough, but it is all we have. And a promise never to forget you.

What Heroes Gave

Robert J. Robicheau

Each donned their uniform to be
Defenders of our liberty

Their mission sure, their spirits bright
Guard freedom’s home, be brave to fight

One final day each faced their call
Each gave their best enduring all

We’ll never know what they went through
But know they loved this country true

Deep down inside we should all feel
What heroes gave, their cost so real

We must stay thankful, grateful of
The gift of freedom through their love

Their loved ones bore the gravest pain
What we can’t know, some now sustain

To God I pray their pain will cease
And each will find long-lasting peace

Remember this from year to year
What heroes gave – shan’t disappear

We’ll never let their special day
Their time for honor slip away

These brave fought for a nation free
If not for them, where would we be?