Honoring the Heroes of Memorial Day
Written by George Cressman, Jr., PE Colonel (Ret)
Memorial Day is a national holiday in the United States that is observed on the last Monday of May. This day is dedicated to remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Memorial Day was initially known as Decoration Day and began after the Civil War to commemorate the Union soldiers who died in battle.
Our very own retired PE Colonel, George Cressman Jr., reminds us that “Memorial Day is a day to honor and remember the brave heroes of our heritage who lost their lives serving our country. They still speak to us. We can still hear their voices if we listen quietly, remembering conversations we had with them before they gave their last measure of devotion to this nation. And even if you are not a Gold Star Family member, a battle buddy, friend, or relative of a fallen hero, all you have to do is look around and you will see their legacy.
Americans gathered in a free society, unified with the common purpose of honoring uncommon bravery. We are their legacy — regardless of the place or the war fought, the purity of sacrifice is without question. Young men and women lost their lives to make the freedom of others possible.
Over a million U.S. heroes have lost their lives while fighting in wars since the American Revolution. The heroes we remember today are not exclusive to gender, race, or religion. They are a diverse group wedded to the common principle that America is a nation worth dying for. They will forever be in our hearts and minds — all the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Coast Guards, and Marines. And we would like to also extend our gratitude and support for a group that has already given their country so much — the Gold Star families.”
As we take time to honor and remember those who have died while serving in the military, we must also recognize the sacrifices made by the families left behind. Memorial Day is an opportunity for us to come together as a nation and pay tribute to these brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Let us take a moment to remember their sacrifice and to thank those who continue to serve and protect our great nation.
As a former Army Reservist, I appreciate those who lost their lives for our country. I always keep in mind they never made it to my age and missed all of the chapters of life we all go through and experience. I salute the fallen!!