Nearly everyone I know is aware of the purpose of Memorial Day. For those who are not, this is the day we pay tribute to those who have fallen in the line of duty serving the United States in her armed forces. I also think this should include civil servants like police officers, firemen, and any other public servants who gave their lives in service to their country.
Since my generation grew up, I am 47, America has not had to sacrifice during a time of conflict as was seen during the first and second world wars. Most of us have grown up disconnected from the sacrifices of conflict while at the same time feeling more connected because of images broadcast through news outlets at a 24 hour pace in most cases.
The United States military is made up of individual men and women who volunteered to serve. We are unique in this respect. Our armed forces are 100% composed of people who chose to be there. They, for the most part, have some of the highest levels of integrity you will ever find. As such, regardless of what you may think of any Commander in Chief, past or present, those who defend us are honor-bound to obey the lawful orders of those placed in authority over them. They do their duty regardless of personal opinion because they swore an oath to do so. They swore this oath because they believe in something bigger than themselves. They believe, among other things, that the personal freedom of the individual United States citizen as outlined in the Constitution, is THE most precious thing we have in this country. They believe this so deeply most of them are willing to die for it.
As I said, Memorial Day is set aside to honor those who sacrificed their lives so we can have our barbeques, not just today but everyday. To honor them I propose we bring back a tradition the military has carried forth for a very long time. When you set the picnic table with places for your guests to eat, set at least one place setting that shall remain empty and undisturbed. This is the place setting that reminds everyone in attendance there are absent friends and loved ones who have fallen in our defense. If you really want to go Old School and follow a warrior tradition open one of your most favored adult beverages, call out a toast to those who have fallen, then pour out that beverage into the earth as a tribute to those who have gone before.
This Memorial Day I honor The General in just such a manner. you will be missed sir. Have a safe Memorial Day, all.
Semper Fi.
