Dear Reader,
As Memorial Day approaches, we pause to remember and honor those who gave everything for our nation. Each Memorial Day, we stand in solemn gratitude for thos who never returned home. The empty chairs at family thables. The children who grew up without a parent. The spouses who faced life alone. Their sacrifice echoes through generations and forms the foundation of the liberties we often take for granted.
My own father was among those who answered the call of duty, serving our country in World War II to keep the world free from tyranny and oppression. He was fortunate to return home, but many of his comrades-in-arms did not. My family's military tradition continued with my cousin, who serves as aa Lieutenant Colonel in the Army until recently. He earned the distinguished Ranger tab, representing the pinnacle of military training and excellence. Men and women like him stand ready to defend our nation at a moment's notice, prepared to make the same sacrifice as those we honor on Memorial Day.
As we honor the memory of those who gave their lives for our country, we must also recognize the silent battles many of our veterans continue to fight long after their time on the battlefield has ended.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, affects a significant number of those who have served, and it is a reminder that the cost of freedom is not always visible. These men and women carry wounds that can't be seen - a burden of trauma, memory, and sacrifice that continues well beyond their return home. Their courage does not end with deployment; it continues every day as they strive to heal and find peace. As a nation, we owe them not only our grattitude but our unwaivering support.
As we gather with family and friends this Memorial Day weekend for barbecues and celebrations, let us take a moment - a dedicated, mindful moment - to remember why this holiday exists. Let us teach our children about sacrifice and service. Let us bow our heads in gratitude for those who died defending our values, our freedoms, and our way of life.
May we prove worthy of their sacrifice by being citizens who honor their memory not just on Memorial Day, but every day - by living with purpose, protecting their freedoms they died for, and building a nation worthy of their profound sacrifice.
They gave their tomorrows for our todays. We will never forget.
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