Never Forget.....

[Bartholomew Foulsteel]

Remember there is a big difference between Veteran's Day and Memorial Day. This coming Monday is to honor our fallen servicemembers. To all of you who have lost a loved one, I can only hope the pain of loss is at least partly tempered by the knowledge that your loved one died for something they truly believed in.

As for me, having lost Soldiers to combat, it tends to be a somewhat emotional day for me. And knowing that my guys are heading back out to harm's way doesn't make it any easier. I have presided over more than 30 full-honors military funerals--from current warriors to the Greatest Generation who survived the beaches of Normandy. I have presented the US Burial flag to Mothers, Wives, and even children. Memorial Day is far too real for me.

Enjoy the day. Have a barbeque, or go camping, or just fart around the house. Speak out against policy, old or new if you so desire. And BASK in the glow of freedom, paid for by those who volunteered and by those who were voluntold.