Memorial Day is here and my mind drifts off to a distant field where we find thousands of crosses lined up in a row. And not just one row but thousands of rows of thousands of crosses with the occasional Star of David in amongst them. The grass is a beautiful green and every so often a large oak tree raises its huge canopy of branches up to the bright sunshine. And in one area we find a gathering of formal, black dressed, people standing around a simple awning that slightly dances in the cool breeze. Under its shade a coffin sets in a postulant position with Old Glory draping it from head to toe with two honor guards posted at each end. A military chaplain concluded his message and a command is given by a Sargent. Instantly the group of armed Marines comes to attention, their faces solemn and grim with the understanding that this is the last and final post of their fallen brother. Another command is given the two men posted at the coffin reach out and pick up the ends of the flag and stand at attention. Then without a hesitation a sixteen gun salute rings out across an entire nation. The honor guard begins the sincere duty of folding the flag. Every motion of this act has been done millions of times on countless shores but this powerful deed will never lose its meaning. Fold after fold, crease after crease till only the blue field of stars is exposed. With a final firm grip, the one honor guard turns in a perfect military form and hands the folded flag to the chaplain. He salutes, and the two march to their position in the ranks. The chaplain turns and faces the family of the fallen and the sound of Taps from a sad horn rings out across the field and it stirs every heart that hears it. He reaches out with the flag and presents it to a woman whose face is stained with tears. She reaches out with tender, trembling hands to except it. The chaplain not willing to release it yet holds it firmly and gently embraces her hands around the flag and prepares himself to say the only words a nation can give. With the hardest spoken words a Marine can say, he utters them in a low, considerate voice.
“On behalf of a grateful nation”
It doesn’t say enough but it’s all we can say. So in return for the little spoken we do all we can to not forget these brave souls. We memorialize their accomplishments and remember their names. Those that are lost or don’t come home rest in our national heart at the tomb of the unknown with a never ending flame to symbolize the light that exists because of them. We set aside a day to reflect and bring back to life the sacrifice that is required for freedom. Let us not forget.
Our minds also go out to the distant posts where the men and women in uniform are serving all over the world. Our hearts are with you and we honor you this day. We love your commitment to your station as many of you are separated from your families. Thank you! Thank you! From a grateful nation it is our hope that you return triumphant and with honor. And to the veterans whose duty is done. We honor your service as well. You have set the path for others to follow and we thank you!
We pledge to never forget you or your service……………………
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