To Absent Comrades....

It seems odd to me that a nation that owes so much to its veterans only recognizes their sacrifice but a few days a year. It amazes me that, even in time of war, so few Americans actually take the time to honor or thank the brave men and women that have kept us free for some 230 years.

Especially those who have paid the highest price for that freedom.

This Memorial Day, go to your BBQ's, watch your ballgames and run around with your kids. Laugh and play and enjoy the company of family and friends. And sit your kids down and tell them what this day really means.

And when you have a moment, offer a sincere prayer of thanks to the many American soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coastguardsmen who have given their very lives so that you could have an extra day off of work this month.

And to our absent comrades, we honor your courage and sacrifice at places like San Juan Hill, the Alamo, Little Round Top, Iwo, Bastogne, the frozen Chosin, Dak To, Takur Ghar, and Fallujah.

May God bless you all.

You are not forgotten.

I have ridden the skies in great machines, hooked up and jumped with the best of men. I have fought long and hard, and when I felt I had no energy left, I have been fired by the fear that if I stopped fighting, my comrades would die. And when I was in danger, enemy all around, I heard the thunder from my left and my right, as my life was defended. I have never been alone. I live, jump, fight and battle to victory with the greatest assemblage of men on earth. Gentlemen, to the BROTHERHOOD of the PARACHUTE INFANTRY.

To the PARACHUTE INFANTRY!

Please remember to join all Americans in The National Moment of Remembrance at 3 PM local time on Memorial Day.

Related posts:

• Twenty-Four Notes: The Origin Of "Taps"
• Memorial Day....I Remember

Also posting:

• Gazing at the Flag: The Tomb of the Unknowns ~ Arlington National Cemetery
• Flopping Aces: Memorial Day 2007
• Woman Honor Thyself » Memorial DaY MusingS
• AMERICAN INFIDEL: Memorial Day
• BLACKFIVE: Memorial Day - Thank You From Those Left Behind
• Hot Air » Memorial Day remembrances, 2007
• Blogs of War » Memorial Day 2007 - The Blogosphere Remembers