For too many, Memorial Day is just a day to take off work - a day to eat too much, drink too much, and visit with friends.

I wish we would all stop and remember that we wouldn't have the freedom to do those things if it weren't for the soldiers. Then I wish we'd all take a moment to honor them and have gratitude for the sacrifices they've made for this country - and for all of us here who live in freedom.

I just read that some veterans don't want to be thanked for their service. I didn't quite comprehend the reason why, so guess I'll keep thanking them until some veteran tells me to stop.

If you're a veteran - thank you for putting your life on hold and risking it in defense of this country and our way of life. If you're the spouse or child of a veteran - thank you for the sacrifices you've made. If you've lost someone... my heart goes out to you.

 

It's the Soldier

It is the Soldier, not the minister,
Who has given us freedom of religion.

It is the Soldier, not the reporter,
Who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the Soldier, not the poet,
Who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the Soldier, not the campus organizer,
Who has given us freedom to protest.

It is the Soldier, not the lawyer,
Who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the Soldier, not the politician,
Who has given us the right to vote.

It is the Soldier who salutes the flag,
Who serves beneath the flag,
And whose coffin is draped by the flag,
Who allows the protester to burn the flag.

Author: Charles Michael Province, U.S. Army

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