Memorial Day

It’s Memorial Day in America. All across the country, communities are gathering at their public squares, VFW Halls, war monuments, and cemeteries to memorialize and honor those members of the American military who have died in service to our country. The flags fly at half staff, the gravestones have been decorated, and the residents of a grateful country gather to remember. Parades, ceremonies, and speeches are the order of the day. But it doesn’t seem like enough. 

How do we adequately honor and celebrate these heroes that have given their lives for their fellow countrymen? Words alone certainly cannot repay the debt we owe them. No parade or memorial service will do. We have an obligation as American citizens to support and defend the principles these soldiers died fighting for. We have an obligation to preserve the liberty and freedom they willingly gave their lives to obtain and defend. 

As we gather today in our backyards for our barbecues and family picnics, let’s remember why this day – that we call Memorial Day – exists. Let’s take some time to remember our war dead – their sacrifice – and their valor. But most importantly, let’s pledge today – in their honor – to always support and defend this country and the liberty and freedom that makes it so great. 

On behalf of a grateful town and nation, my heartfelt thanks to all of our veterans here in Claverack. To those from Claverack that have given their lives we say thank you and let us commit to carry on the cause they died for. Let us always remember them and their sacrifice. The blood of heroes never dies.

---