My Memorial Day reflections

When I was a boy, I had the privilege of singing Lee Greenwood’s song “God Bless the U.S.A.” on stage, with my dad playing the piano.  I actually sang this song on more than one occasion; I’m fortunate enough to even have one performance recorded for posterity.  I’ve been thinking about a line from that song.  It is highly applicable on this special day; it says, “And I’m proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free; and I won’t forget the men who died and gave that right to me.”

It is Memorial Day, 2018.  Memorial Day has been misunderstood.  Technically speaking, it is not the unofficial start of summer.  It is not a chance to enjoy an extra day off from work.  It is not even a chance to honor someone who has served in the military (more on this subject in a moment).  It is the chance to remember the people who gave their life in service of the United States of America.

One website states, “Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day.  Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle…Veteran’s Day is the day set aside to thank and honor ALL those who served honorably in the military – in wartime or peacetime” (https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetday_faq.asp - #5 in a list of frequently asked questions).

I don’t know where the phrase originated (apparently it dates back to the 1960’s), but someone was spot-on when they said, “Freedom is not free.”  This Memorial Day enjoy your cookouts, time with friends, shopping, and relaxation.  But please take some time to contemplate that your freedom as an American is not free; it came at the high cost of noble individuals who sacrificed their life.  That’s what Memorial Day is all about.

Kevin