On Memorial Day

It's yet another holiday for us in the States, and many will go about their "holiday" by relaxing, having a cookout with friends, catching a movie or doing another leisure activity. There's certainly nothing wrong with this at all. The tragedy is that in the year 2006, even with the Iraq War going on, many of this country are untouched by the sacrifices made by those in uniform. The war is a world away, and many do not know anyone involved in the war; in fact, only five years after September 11th, I daresay many have forgotten (though not many in New York--the pain for them is likely still very real).

I am actually the first man in four generations that has not been involved in a war. My great-grandfather served in WWI. My grandfather served during WWII. My dad served in Vietnam, in conditions that I cannot even describe. It is because of this and living in the area saturated with the military that I cannot help but be reminded of what these men and women do for our country.

So, take a few minutes day, and thank God for being born in a country that not only allows you to do the things in the first paragraph above, but worship and serve God without fear of persecution. These freedoms are what they fight for--don't take them for granted. And if you see a veteran or even an active service member, thank them. And you're not only thanking them, but those that fought with them and gave the ultimate sacrifice, like Capt. Brian S. Letendre.