Those who gave all

The end of May approaches. We look forward to Memorial Day for various reasons–a day off work, a quick vacation, a weekend on the lake, or a day to sleep late and do as little as possible. While we may joyfully anticipate a day of rest or play, it’s a time to remember the fallen–those who gave all.

Memorial Day honors all Americans who gave the ultimate sacrifice, their lives, while serving in the United States military. This special day to honor those who died in service to their country became official by an Act of Congress in 1971.

Let’s not forget their sacrifice.

A day to remember

This day of remembrance first began as local observances honoring neglected gravesites of Civil War soldiers. One such event occurred in Hampton Park, South Carolina on May 1, 1865, although more than twenty-five other locations claim to have been the first to sponsor Memorial Day. The first large commemoration of Memorial Day occurred on May 30, 1873 in Arlington National Cemetery. General Ulysses S. Grant presided.

Arlington National Cemetery

Until World War I, only Civil War soldiers were honored. Now, all American soldiers, who die while in service, are remembered. Learn more about the history of Memorial day here.

My dad served in World War II. Thankfully he came back (I wouldn’t be here otherwise). But all soldiers are changed by their military experiences, especially if they lose a comrade. A good friend of my dad was killed following the invasion of Normandy. Fellow soldiers never forget the loss. Nor should we.

No greater love

Can there be any greater love than one who would give his/her life to save and protect others?

Jesus said:

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:12-13)

We are blessed to have a Savior, Jesus, who gave His life for us. His love and sacrifice extend to us the gift of eternal life.

The sacrifices of those who died on the battlefield to grant and preserve freedom for us and others throughout the world are a blessing we can never repay.

A time to give thanks

I hope you will join me in giving thanks for those who served and lost their lives preserving freedom here at home and abroad.

For those who fought and died–and for their families–thank you.