HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY?!  Happy?  I’ve heard this from many during my 45 years on the earth.  Memorial Day denotes the start to the summer but, yet, that’s not its intended purpose.  The purpose is to honor those who have sacrificed all in service to our country.  That being the case, why would it be happy?  I find no fault in wishing someone a Happy Memorial Day because I am happy.

Today, less than one percent of the population serves in uniform and less than three percent have served.  In addition to my own 22 years of service, the past five years have provided me the privilege of working with those who have returned from war.  I have had the opportunity to hear their stories, meet their families and share their tears.  I have been humbled by meeting those who, knowing the dangers, still raise their right hand and give an oath to serve something larger than themselves.

This oath is rarely given lightly.  When a person takes that oath, they not only enlist themselves, they enlist their entire family.  That oath is taken and adhered to, even though the mission might not be agreed with.  That oath remains in tact even when a life is on the line.  That oath represents not just the one percent who serve but an allegiance to all that remain at home and those who have taken it prior.  That oath and the sacrifices that are made to keep it, secure the life, liberty and pursuit of happiness for all.

I will wish those I know a Happy Memorial Day!  Not because I am happy to have a three day weekend, because it is the start of the summer, or that I get to have a cookout with my friends.  I will wish them a Happy Memorial Day because I am happy to live in a free society and thankful to all who have served to secure this way of life. I am happy that there are those who take the oath and decide to serve.  I am happy that there are people in this country believe in our core values and give selflessly.  I will wish those I know a Happy Memorial Day as a reminder to myself, and them, that freedom is not free and that our way of life comes with a price.   I gladly celebrate those who have given everything.  I will continue to honor their service and their sacrifice.

Thank you for being in the one percent.  You are not forgotten.