Thank You

Today we remember those who gave everything in service to our country, and we thank those who came home. We think of all of the great opportunities we have here in America, and we ponder what may have been had our nation's veterans not won the battles fought all over the world, and on our own soil.

We are a nation of freedom and democracy. We are free to express our views, free to practice our preferred religions, free to work where we want, live where we want, and believe what we want. These freedoms have come at a cost though. A terrible, but necessary cost. From the Revolutionary War, right up to the War on Terrorism, our freedom, our democracy, and our nation has been challenged many times over, and every single time, brave Americans have stepped forth, and put themselves in harms way.

Some gave their lives, and never came home. Some came home to be buried. Others came home grievously wounded, both physically, and mentally. We Americans who have never served, owe them a great debt, and today is a day to join together, and in a very small way, repay that debt. We repay that debt by saying two simple words. Thank You.

Memorial Weekend is a long weekend, with most folks getting Monday off work. Many families get together for BBQ's, while others head Up North for relaxing weekends on the water. Others may just stay home and recharge their batteries, and get ready for the upcoming work week, or maybe get the needed spring cleaning done, and work around the yard.

These are all good things, and it is great that we have the wonderful way of life here in America that we can do these things, and share time with family and friends. While we are doing this though, we should all take a few moments to reflect upon those that have made all of this possible.

Remember those that gave everything, those who may be buried on a hillside in France, or maybe at Arlington, or in countless cemeteries around the country. Take a minute or two, and privately thank them for their sacrifice.

Let's also remember that we do not have to save up our Thank You's just for Memorial Day. If you see a veteran, maybe in the store shopping, or at the park, or wherever, it's a great thing to just walk up and thank them for their service. I guarantee you that they will stop, smile, and thank you right back. Happens every time, and you'll both walk away feeling pretty darn good.

Today I remember all those who served and gave their lives, and I thank all those who served and came home.

Thank You For Your Service, And Welcome Home...