is more than just a word. It’s an action, of self-preservation, of mourning, of want, of need, of loathing, and of pain. It’s all of those rolled into one big ball of emotions, that just turn you numb. May 28th 2007 I can recount the event that lead to the loss of one of my good friends, I can remember the burning heat of the midday sun, I remember the stench of the sewage lined streets, but more clearly than anything I remember the deafening boom and falling debris from the IED that claimed my friends life. He wasn’t the only one lost that day, but his loss made it 10 times more personal for me than I had imagined it would.
Memorial Day is not just a day that you get off from work, it’s not the opening of BBQ Season, it’s not meant so that you can go and drink and drive. So many have forgotten the true purpose of this somber holiday, and have turned it into a party weekend. Well party it up America, Soldiers don’t have the luxury of forgetting and we never will. So go throw some more burgers on the grill, down more beers than you should, and make sure you’re doing it on an American Flag tablecloth so you can show your true respect for the fallen. And maybe half-way through the weekend you’ll remember to say a little something in rememberance, but that’s the most that you’ll put out.
Every day is Memorial Day, every day should be a day of rememberance. Maybe not in such a magnitude as this, but at least take time to remember that Men and Women have fought and died so you can sleep in peace at night. That good men stand ready to do evil on your behalf.
I know that I will never forget, and I remember everyday the sacrifices made.
Stay Motivated.
-TS
Good post Mike… I love you and I know what you are saying, and so do others who are there with you.