Memorial Day, 2012

Today we remember those who died in the service of our country; the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines who went to war and gave their all. There are always too many who die in war; that’s one reason they say “War is Hell”.

Today we also honor the Gold Star Families, the mothers and fathers, wives and husbands, and the children of our fallen warriors. Our thoughts and prayers are always with these families, not just today, but every day.

There is a graphic floating around on Facebook of a soldier reporting in to Heaven, and saying to Saint Peter that he has already been through Hell. There is no doubt of that.

I am also reminded of a ballad called “Junior”, in which the narrator of the song recalls what his WW2 uncle said in the refrain, “all the heroes are 60 years and half a world away”, a reference to all his uncle’s fellow soldiers, including his best friend, who died on the beaches of Normandy.

Rest well, Warriors. You’ve earned. Your life was cut far too short. You have our gratitude for your sacrifice and honor your memory.