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May 27, 2019: In Grateful Memory


“In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.


While growing up, Memorial Day was a huge event for our communities. A federal holiday, stores were all closed and the day’s events were organized by a parade that was the centerpiece of the day.  In our home, participation was a family affair. Our bike spokes were decorated with red, white and blue streamers. My dad dusted off his old navy jacket and with pride acknowledged “it still fit”! During our scouting years, as girl and boy scouts, we gathered to march with our troop. Later during “band years”, we donned our school uniforms and proudly played national anthems. Trucks were decorated, floats from various businesses were created and the whole community would come out, waving flags of red, white, and blue, to honor those we had lost during their military careers. Veterans and soldiers alike, marched to honor their fallen comrades.

First established on May 30, 1868 as Decoration Day, the holiday was designated to honor the soldiers lost during the Civil War. Traditions were established with parades, family gatherings and the event where American flags were placed on tombstones and memorials. In 1971, it became a federal holiday. But it seems that over the years, the parades seem to have gotten smaller and patriotic spirit a topic for political debate.

I’m hoping the spirit of gratitude and remembrance will become the focus once again of this holiday. It shouldn’t be a matter of debate on loyalty or who is the better “patriot”, the focus should be that men and women gave their lives in service to the United States. I know that Ron and I are grateful for all of those who have served and continue to serve in the armed forces of our country.

Our granddaughter Zoe, loves this song sung by Lee Greenwood, especially when she can “belt out the lyrics” so appropriate for today:

And I’m proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free
And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me
And I’d gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA

Celebrate this Day! Let’s come together as community of people who care about this wonderful country we are privileged to live in, not just today but all year long.

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