“It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us – that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion – that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain – that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom – and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
These words taken from Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg address ring as true today as they did in 1863 when they were first spoken to honor the fallen. Throughout our history, men and women have answered the call to serve our nation and defend our freedom and way of life.
Far too many of these brave souls made the ultimate sacrifice. The cost of our freedom is indeed high. To these honored dead we pause on Memorial Day to reflect on the sacrifice made by them; many not older than their early twenties, who performed extraordinary service with bravery and resolve under circumstances most of us can’t even imagine. Hopefully, we will always keep their sacrifice in our minds eye by not taking our freedom for granted and never abusing the freedom which has been entrusted to us.
Our freedom and way of life has come and continues to come at a very high price. It must always be respected and in today’s times, it must always be defended.
So, as the unofficial start of the summer begins, let us take a break from our work or school routine and enjoy the company of family and friends at picnics and barbeques and of course the wonderful parade down Main Street. We have a great deal to be proud of in our Nation. We owe it to the fallen not only to never forget them for their sacrifice, but also to celebrate the freedom that they so selflessly and so ultimately defended for our sake. Thank you.