Remembering the Fallen

As a teenager, I wanted to be in the United States Army. And not doing just anything. My desire was to be an Army helicopter pilot.

I became so enamored with that branch of the Armed Forces that I spent hours sitting on my bed drawing and memorizing the ranks and insignia of Army officers and enlisted personnel. Envisioning myself flying those huge helicopters in service to my country was exciting.

However, not all dreams come true, and I never did join the military. But I’ve always carried a deep love for this country and utmost respect for our servicemen and women.

Honor Their Memories

Men and women in uniform deserve our year-round support, thanks, and admiration.

We also need to intentionally and regularly honor the memories of those who gave their lives to keep America the “land of the free.” The holiday we celebrate today, Memorial Day (first officially observed in 1868 as Decoration Day), was established to do just that.

Men and women in uniform deserve our year-round support, thanks, and admiration. And let us also intentionally and regularly honor the memories of those who gave their lives to keep America the 'land of the free.' Click To Tweet

Unfortunately, this day has lost much of its meaning over the years. Today, for many, Memorial Day is little more than a three-day weekend. Simply a time to have fun and relax.

It breaks my heart to think of those men and women, like my Uncle Harlan (whom I never knew because he gave his life serving in the Korean War), whose service and ultimate sacrifice are casually tossed aside and nearly forgotten. There is often little homage paid to those fallen heroes.

I pray there is a resurgence of pride in this great nation and a renewal of gratitude and respect toward those willing to serve to defend her.

Remember Their Sacrifice

So today, on this Memorial Day, I implore you to take a few moments (right now if you haven’t done so already) to remember, reflect and honor those who have selflessly given their all in service to their country.

Take a few moments today to remember, reflect and honor those who have selflessly given their all in service to America. #MemorialDay Click To Tweet

I extend my most heartfelt thanks to all the men and women in uniform. And to Uncle Harlan and his fellow servicemen and women who gave their lives so others can be safe and free, you have my deepest respect. We will remember.

“This is my command: Love one another as I have loved you. ¹³No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends.(John 15:12-13)

Reflections: Is there a fallen hero you would like to honor? Mention them in a comment for all of us to remember.

I have so much to be thankful for. Here are a few (#653–671) on my march toward one thousand and beyond (view them all by clicking here):

A plant specially potted for me; Hubby filling in so I can meet a deadline; Boys playing evening badminton together
Sharing memories with my children through photos; Clean bill of health for me; “Littles” and Mommies
Rachel’s attempt to imitate my singing/humming; Sharing the afternoon with my youngest; Oriole’s beautiful morning song
Lulled to sleep by a spring storm; Soil’s amazing capacity to support life; Playing badminton—carefully and poorly
Shelter from the storm; Memory-capturing photographs; Abundance of books available to enjoy
Big, brown, doe eyes of horses; “Easy” conversations; Boys 2 and 3 planting my garden—such a needed help
All who died in service to this nation