Day 149: A Day of Remembering...

 

Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed annually in the United States on the last Monday of May. Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Formerly known as Decoration Day, it originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union soldiers who died in the Civil War. By the 20th century Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died in all wars. It typically marks the start of the summer vacation season, while Labor Day marks its end.

I was a military brat for eleven years. My dad gave fifteen years of service as a U.S. Marine. Military life was hard, but rewarding at the same time. I remember my dad being gone for six straight months, to only return for a short time and then again for another six months. Letters and a very special phone call, were our only way of contact. (This was before all the awesome internet access we have now and before their tours went up to a year or more at a time).

Please remember and hold dear that Memorial Day is not just a fun three day weekend, for the kickoff of Summer, it is a holiday of remembrance and thanks to our men and woman that have and are serving in the military. It is to remember the ultimate sacrifice, that so many brave souls have done for you and I.

Instead of remembering and thanking these brave men and woman on just one day of the year, please think of their sacrifice often and whenever you have the opportunity to thank one... do. It really means more to them than you know. Walk up to them, shake their hand, and say, “Thank you.” That’s not too hard... right? :-)

Have a blessed summer everyone and thank you for reading.~

Here is a very touching video my sister made a few years ago. It's one that will never make you forget. I apologize if I bring tears to anyone. I promise it's worth watching.

"I just wanted to put together a special tribute to the men and women that have served, and are serving our country. I hope it helps us to remember the huge sacrifices they have made and are making for us each and ever day, because it's so easy for us to forget just what they and there families have gone through and are going through to help keep our country safe.

When the first song finishes playing and the bagpipes begin to play every soldier you see has paid the ultimate sacrifice with their live. They are the faces of our brave men and women that wont be coming home to their loved ones. So please, remember to say THANK YOU to our veterans, and our service men, and women, and remember to always lift them up in prayer."
  
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