Memorial Day weekend is upon us once again. The beaches officially open this weekend, at least here in NY, and the BBQ's get fired up ad the beer and booze flows, sales galore abound, discounts are given to military personnel. If we know a Soldier, or Airman, or Sailor, or Marine or Coast Guardsman we probably are going to be likely to thank them for their service.
Once again, despite our good intention, we apt to get it all pretty much wrong about Memorial Day. Memorial Day is not for those currently serving or for veterans. Their day is Veterans' Day. Memorial Day is very different or at least was meant to be something very different. It is a time to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, during time of war, to serve and protect our nation, our Constitution, our way of life and each and every one of us. It is a time to memorialize the dead, to pay homage to our bravely fallen grandfathers, fathers, mothers, spouses, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters and so on who lost their lives during wartime while serving our great nation.
I am not about to tell you, even for a moment, that we should not be respectful and thankful to those currently serving but I am going to repeat - it is not their day on Monday - it is a day to remember those who are among the missing. We must never forget them nor their sacrifice - so, during the ballgame, or while at the department store sale, or when enjoying the BBQ - take a moment to give them a thought - those who have drank from the same canteen.
All the best,
Glenn B
