On Memorial Day each year, we honor those who have given their lives for the freedom we enjoy as a nation. Many of us take for granted this freedom purchased with the blood of our brothers, sisters, fathers and mothers. When a wrinkled old man wearing a sailor’s cap visits the graves of fallen comrades, stand up and salute him for he lost his best friends in battle. And when a photo of a young mom bears a wreath of flowers and the American Flag on her headstone, remember the life she gave, and the family she left behind.
In the movie, Saving Private Ryan, one of the last things Tom Hanks’ character says to Private Ryan is, “Earn this.” He was speaking of the freedom and life that was purchased for officer Ryan with the blood of others that came to save him.
There is no greater earthly honor, no task any man or woman may perform that displays a higher call than to give his or her life for another. Thank you, to those of you who mourn today. May God bless your families. We remember you today, and will never forget the price you’ve paid.