Memorial Day means many things to different people.  To some it’s a time  to spend with family over a hot grill and some cool drinks, to others it’s just another day of vacation.  Then to some, it means something deeper and more special.  It’s a day to remember those who have fought for our freedoms that allow us to enjoy days with family and the ability to sleep in on a Monday.  Tanner, Chris Allen, Catherine Lane and Charlie & Debbie all tell us what Memorial Day means to them and their freedom.

Chris Allen: 

Memorial Day is that time for me to pause and reflect on the many sacrifices that have been made for our freedom in America. If it had not been for the brave actions of those who served and the ones that gave their lives for what this country was founded on, I may not have the freedom to speak, write, or stand for what I believe. I also think of the families of those who served, so much has been given by what they have had to experience. So yes, one day out of the year to honor and pay tribute to these wonderful people, maybe I need to do this more often. I say thank you, and I truly feel that my freedom is a blessing.

Tanner:

Although I have never served myself, I have had the pleasure of meeting a lot of military folks in my radio career.

I am always impressed by their passion and dedication. I have been there when troops leave to serve overseas. I have seen the tears in the eyes of family members. Not knowing if this will be their last time together.

Not only do the soldiers sacrifice, so do their families…I thank them all. Some give the ultimate sacrifice. Their life.

This is what Memorial Day is about. A day of remembrance and to say thanks. And it will never be enough.

Catherine Lane:

Respect for the military and for Memorial Day has always been a part of me. My Great Grandfather was a WW1 vet and my Dad was in the Army duing WW2. I’ve always had the greatest reverence for men and women who have lost their lives in defense of this country or in defense of others. My nephew Nathan almost lost his life in Afghanistan and will forever be physically reminded of the broken back he suffered after a roadside bomb attack. I haven’t had a chance to really talk to him about Memorial Day so I asked our intern Nate about what he experienced as a veteran of the war in Iraq.

Army Sgt. Nathan Conley lost seven friends while fighting in Iraq. A couple of them lost their because of a a suicide bomber in a closeby building. A few lost their lives after an ambush as they were clearing buildings. Some died from roadside bomb attacks. But one of Nate’s friends died just 48 hours before he was supposed to be going home. A sniper ended his life when he stopped to fix something broken on his truck. His friend was going home to be present during the birth of his son. Of course, that little boy will never know his Dad now.

I asked Nate how we could best recognize Memorial Day. He said by remembering the families left behind in some way, with a smile or a gesture of some sort and for us to take some time out to be mindful of those that answered the call and payed the ultimate price.

Charlie & Debbie:

Thoughts on Memorial Day.  I would think for most, it would be immediately BBQs, pool time, lake fun, The Coca-Cola 600, the kickoff to summer, etc.  It is all these things, and some might say, “How disrespectful.”

No, in a way, I think that all the celebrations and activities may be the greatest compliment and thank you that we can give our military personnel.

Character is defined as who you are when no one is looking.  Well, when no one is looking, our military personnel is on the front lines, fighting for/protecting our way of life.  So continue to live yours and have fun and celebrate.

BUT

Remember to take a few moments to consider what is going on, when we’re not looking, to make all of that possible.  Think of those who are selflessly sacrificing in the name of our country and on our behalf all over the world…24-7, 365.

Our son was born 2 weeks after 9/11.  His life has never known a time of military peace in our country.  All I have to do is look him…and who he is…and who he is capable of becoming, and I immediately think of these past 10+ years-and all the souls we have to thank for that.

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What does Memorial Day mean to you?

Listen to some America loving Memorial Day country songs.