This morning Ian asked me what today is all about. “Mommy, what is Memorial Day?” he asked.
I told him that it is a day to remember people who have protected us and our country.
The concept of war is totally foreign to this sweet 5 1/2-year-old, but my husband and I have tried to explain that people have fought for us in order to keep us safe. And, some have died in the process.
“Okay, Mommy,” he said in response.
Although he doesn’t understand all of this, he does understand death — well as much as someone his age can.
Last night on PBS, the Memorial Day special from Washington, D.C. aired. Ian watched some of this with us before his bedtime. It was such a moving show. We only saw part of it, but what we did see was packed with patriotism and honoring our Vets.
We started watching it during the honoring of Korean War vets and the memorial in D.C. to them, then a tribute to Charles Durning who was a great actor and Veteran of World War II. Hearing his accounts of landing at Normandy and all of his buddies that he lost gave me chills.
He was awarded a Silver Star and several Purple Hearts. I fondly remember him on the show, “Evening Shade” and several other items, but hadn’t realized his bravery in battle. Thank you Charles and all other Veterans for all that you have done!!
The special also included songs from each branch of the military. They celebrated the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy, and National Guard. Thanks to all of you who have served or are still serving! You are awesome and so very brave.
As you know too well, war truly is hell. I want to take today to say thank you to all veterans for enduring hell on earth for our freedoms! We cannot thank you enough for your love of our country and your sacrifice.
Thanks also to your families for their sacrifices as well.
Today on this first unofficial day of summer, I am going to remember these fine people and all that they have done for me and my family.
I wonder if I can remember that each day? I sure hope so since freedom is not to be taken for granted. Also freedom is never free.
Here are a few quotes about Memorial Day:
- “For love of country they accepted death,” ~James A. Garfield
- “They fell, but o’er their glorious grave floats free the banner of the cause they died to save.” ~Francis Marion Crawford
- “The brave die never, though they sleep in dust: Their courage nerves a thousand living men.” ~Minot J. Savage
- “The legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example.” ~Benjamin Disraeli
- “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.” ~Lee Greenwood
I Still Wonder... 