Memorial Day, as we know it today, officially became a recognized Federal holiday in 1971. It was then declared to take place on the last Monday in the month of May and was set apart as a time where the Nation would pause to remember the men and women who died while serving their country in one of the United States Armed Services. On this day, many visit national monuments, go to parades, visit cemeteries, and/or host get togethers in their homes. Regardless of the traditions celebrated on this day, most pause to give thanks for the men and women who paid the ultimate price while protecting the freedoms that life in the US provides. I have to confess that while growing up in a small southern town in the US Memorial Day for me simply meant that it was the beginning of summer. It also meant that my dad did not have to go to work so we were likely going to go camping or at the least throw something on the grill and play some games in the yard. However, it carries a much different meaning for me today.
In 1990, I enlisted in the United States Navy. After finishing bootcamp and Rescue Swimmer school, I quickly deployed to the Persian Gulf. It was a volatile time for us as a nation as we were involved in several back to back conflicts: Operation Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, and Operation Southern Watch. My experience serving abroad gave me a new perspective on this holiday. As Americans our freedoms come at a high price. Many have fought and died on the battlefield defending the freedoms we exercise and often take for granted. Let's make sure that today we do not take them for granted. I encourage you to stop for a moment and thank God for the men and women who gave their all that we might continue to live in freedom. Please pray also for the families that have been left behind. Pray for God's grace and provision to be present in their homes.
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for his friends. John 15:13
Blessings!
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