A day to remember; a day to give thanks; a day to appreciate our freedom that was won by others gone before us. Many are out there still fighting for our freedom; thank you!

When I was a kid, this day was called Decoration Day and our family met with other family members to decorate the graves of our grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Then there would be a big picnic after the visitation of the graves at the park. To this day, I still decorate several of those same graves and a few new ones that have been added to the group. It is a good tradition and one that I hope I pass on to my own children and grandchildren.

Many also observe the 3PM moment when Americans may chose to participate in the “National Moment of Remembrance”, moments of silence and prayer to honor those who have died in the military. Sacrifices were made for each of us so that we could experience the freedoms provided through their sacrifices.

My own father was in the Army as a communication radio operator. He knew Morse code like you would not believe. He was overseas for 2 1/2 years in many European countries during WW II and was a part of the Normandy landings, Omaha Beach June 4, 1944. He survived this and came home, but it is the one thing my dad never talked about…..ever.

Thank you for each and every life that participated; those lives that were lost and for those who have and/or currently serve to protect our great country ….The United States of America!!

PJP