Memorial Day is Coming, Let's Do It Right

Memorial Day is coming. It is time to show some real respect to the men and women that are serving, have served, and especially to the ones that gave their lives for us.

There will be many writing articles paying tribute to our men and women in uniform, and especially to all who have given their lives for our freedom. We should never forget what they have all done for us.

However, my article is not about them, it’s about the rest of us. It’s about people like me that didn’t risk their lives, that didn’t put their own lives on hold to serve their country. It is time for us to show some real appreciation. I am talking about something more than saying, “Thank you for your service,” on the ofttimes that we actually remember to say it.

Memorial Day is a day to remember and to pause. Yes, it is also considered the day to welcome summer with barbeques and parties, but there will be plenty of time for that. If you are really grateful to our men and women that gave all for us and for those who put themselves in a position to give all for us, show it. There are Memorial Day ceremonies in your town. GO TO THEM. Stand and put your hand on your heart for the National Anthem, bow you heads, and listen to the speakers. Show your real appreciation for all that served, and especially for the fallen. It won’t take too long. In most cases you will be back preparing your grill and loading up the beer cooler before noon.

Demand that your representatives show some real support by putting their vote where their mouth is when providing funding for our veterans.

Finally, be aware of how our government plans to use our military. Do not let national fervor over some issues send our people into conflict. Make sure they are only sent in harm’s way when it is absolutely necessary. Avoiding war is the best thing we can do for our service men and women.