HOPE YOU REMEMBER THOSE WHO SACRIFIED

Today is a day for remembrance.  A day when memories should be front and center.   In truth, every day should be a Memorial Day.  A time to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy provided by those that serve.

We've had two of our children serve, Kristopher and Jonathan.  Without question we are proud of the commitment both made at such a young point in their life.  Kristopher served in Afghanistan in 2010-2011.  Jonathan served state side.  In many ways, we are thankful that he did.  Our family knows all too well what sacrifice means.  It's not just the soldier.  It's family and friends as well. So this is a day to remember their part in the process.

Serving those that Served.........

I've known a few soldiers who have deployed and were killed in action. None intimately.  One I knew was when I was in high school and the others were part of the 400 Iowa and Nebraska troops that deployed to Afghanistan with our oldest.  What does this day mean to those people that knew someone first-hand?  My hope is a lot.  My bigger hope is we look deep down and make Memorial Day something other than time off and family outings.  Make it a holiday.  You know what a holiday is, right?  By definition, " A holiday is a day set aside by custom or by law on which normal activities, especially business or work, including school, are suspended or reduced.  Generally, holidays are intended to allow individuals to celebrate or commemorate an event of  tradition of cultural or religious significance".   Hopefully a deep meaning becomes custom to you.

Today, I think of a solider who served.  Who saw some horrific things and brought that battle back to the states.  His name is Ryan Whitt.  Specialist Jeffrey Ryan Whitt.  I think of his family today.  I'm sure this day is like one of many days they ache for him.....birthdays, holidays, wedding day, and the day of his death.  Remember Specialist Whitt today.  He was a fine young man that left this earth far too early.  That's what I will remember.  I hope you have someone you can remember in the same way.       


Jocko Willink, a retired Nay SEAL offers some unique thoughts on this Memorial Day.  Hope you realize a deeper appreciation in viewing his interview:

https://video.foxnews.com/v/6159024891001?playlist_id=6097749916001#sp=show-clips


YGG,

John