Entry # 50: May 29, 2006
Camp Buehring, Kuwait (Somewhere near the Iraq border)
It’s Memorial Day weekend. For the average American, it means an extra day off work. For many families and individuals across the country, it’s a time to reflect and thank the veterans who are serving or have served in the Armed Forces. I remember my Dad calling Papa (my grandfather) and thanking him for his service in the Army every year. That’s the kind of small detail that sticks with you.
With our country in the midst of war right now, there are a growing number of veterans. For a good many of them, this will be their first Memorial Day as veterans. If you see one or know one, give a smile and a thank you. It will make their day. Also, many of the men and women who served in World War II are nearing 80 or are well beyond that age. There is a limited amount of time to thank them for what they did in life. Don’t forget the Korean and Vietnam vets. Make them know that you are grateful for their sacrifice.
My first Memorial Day while deployed was bittersweet. I had the day off. Well, there never really is a day off, but I didn’t do PT (physical training). Our brigade lost two men a couple of days prior, a Captain and a Specialist. The memorial service was held in an aircraft hanger about a mile away from our living quarters. It was 120 degrees, the wind was blowing, having the effect of a high powered fan on full blast, backed by sand. The hanger was even worse. Filled with over 200 Soldiers, dripping sweat, it was like being trapped in a heated tent on a scorching Georgia summer day. That small sacrifice was nothing compared to what those two brave men did. It puts things in perspective.
So fly the flag high. Memorial Day is not a day to fly the flag at half-mast. Fly it at the top of the flag pole where the gone have fought so hard for it to be. To be honest, just because we’re deployed, don’t cancel your plans at the lake or grilling up a storm. Enjoy the freedom that veterans fought for. I wouldn’t want it any other way. But do raise a cold one to the men and women in green and blue and remember those who gave their all. And so the Soldier’s life continues…
“We talk a great deal about patriotism. What do we mean by patriotism in the context of our times? I venture to suggest that what we mean is a sense of national responsibility which will enable America to remain master of her power — to walk with it in serenity and wisdom, with self-respect and the respect of all mankind; a patriotism that puts country ahead of self; a patriotism which is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime. The dedication of a lifetime — these are words that are easy to utter, but this is a mighty assignment. For it is often easier to fight for principles than to live up to them.”