Memorial Day has a special place in the hearts of all Americans. It is not just another day that passes us by – it’s one that carries great significance.
Today, Americans across our great country are gathering to pay tribute to the men and women who lost their lives defending the promise of America. They fought to protect our communities, our values and the very freedoms upon which our republic was founded. Most importantly, they fought to protect a country that they were proud to call home. We owe them a profound debt of gratitude.
As America faced its darkest days, these men and women gave us hope – no matter how near or far they may have been from home. Through the tests of time, trials, and tribulations, that hope never faded – it’s an inextinguishable flame. No matter the hour, minute, or second, America remains protected by scores of men and women who followed in the footsteps of our fallen heroes. I can guarantee you that they harbor the same grit, selflessness and determination as their predecessors. And, they carry the same love for our great country as well.
As we reflect upon the importance of today, we must also acknowledge a duty that we must fulfill. Though our fallen heroes are not with us today, it remains our solemn duty to carry on their service by protecting America’s prosperity in their stead.
But how do we do that?
We teach our children, grandchildren, and future generations that loving America and its freedoms is not radical. Respecting the flag, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, and singing the National Anthem are not radical either. Let’s teach them about the selfless sacrifices that were made, and are being made, to protect them. And let’s teach them that loving and serving your country, in any capacity, is not a radical or illegal idea either.
-Blair Eddins