Lest We Forget...

^{Source:   Wikimedia Commons (Photo in the Public Domain)}

For some, today is nothing more than the last day of a three day weekend. Many will save money at Memorial Day Sales, set off fireworks (I heard some this weekend in my neighborhood), drink beer, have barbecues, and attend parades. Then there are others that consider today a somber day... a day of reflection.

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In Flanders Fields   

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

          — Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae

^{Note:   This poem is in the Public Domain}

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Having served in uniform and witnessed the loss of life inherent in battle, I find fireworks and other celebrations associated with Memorial Day to be a bit inappropriate. Then again, that is just my personal opinion. I do not judge those that participate in such celebrations... I am just saddened by those that do not recognize the significance of Memorial Day.

On the other hand; I do salute those in the media today. They have made an effort to bring to the public an understanding of what Memorial Day truly symbolizes.

A little known tradition is that people take a moment at 3:00 pm to reflect upon the ultimate sacrifice given by those in uniform throughout history.

Would you join me in taking a moment today to remember all those around the world that gave their lives for their Countrymen?

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Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.