This verse always comes to mind on Memorial Day:
"There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." -John 15:13
Our school District was a part of bringing together the remaining WWII Veterans on Memorial Day last year. It is incredible to hear them talk and share their stories. Freedom is not free.
https://tcghs.org/historical-tidbits/events/2024-celebrating-the-last-of-the-greatest-generation/ This is not a video for young children. It is the memories of those who served. The District hosted the event for the Tazewell County Genealogical and Historical Society and the Illinois. It received "The Best of Illinois" from the Illinois Historical Society, and was recognized in Springfield in late April.
I am humbled by these men. Most were still boys when they were drafted or signed up to leave the comforts of home to fight and potentially give their lives if duty required the sacrifice. I think we cannot even begin to grasp the "hard times" they suffered. Letters were the primary communication with loved ones as they served in far away places. For the Navy men, communication was even more challenging. Facetime and video chats were science fiction.
The scripture is a reminder of Jesus's love for us when we did not know him or love him. Memorial Day is a reminder of the many who served and gave all for their loved ones back home and to defend the freedoms that few countries have tasted. We take so much for granted, at least I know I do.
When I think of Memorial Day, I think of the many who served in 1776, WWI, WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. We cannot forget the modern conflicts that have seen too many of our fathers, mothers, spouses, sons, daughters, siblings, and friends come home in a flag covered box. I am grateful for the pilots on those air planes who often recognize the soldier, the military escort, the families, and the ultimate sacrifice.
Let us never become indifferent to the high price of freedom. Let us never forget that on a day we have off to cookout and fellowship with family and friends, some have an empty seat around the table. Let us never, ever forget.
Today, I am grateful for Memorial Day.
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