There are two schools of thought for Memorial Day (Weekend).
A. 
B.
B. I believe there is value in both - and there can be a blending of honoring our Fallen - and celebrating the gift of Freedom they've afforded to us all.
Some people will argue - "these wars aren't fought for us, they're fought for oil..." - Memorial Day is not uniquely linked to modern warfare. With only .45% of our population serving in the Armed Forces, it is also likely that individual families do not currently have a connection to today's military community. That being said regardless of your personal involvement with military personnel - we as Americans - all have a debt of gratitude to the men and women who've laid down their lives to provide us the luxury of the "American Dream".
Considering recognizing Sergeant Thomas Summerset, a Revolutionary War hero from our home state of North Carolina. Take time to learn about units such as the Burke Rifles, Edgecombe Guards, and Uwharrie Grays... NC units of the Civil War.
Offer a moment of silence at your Memorial Day Celebration - or read about one of the following Fallen - asking people to give thanks for the Freedoms we enjoy.
SGT Ray Eubanks, WWII
PFC Bryant H Womack, Korean War
SFC Eugene Ashley, Vietnam
CPT Patrick B Olson, Gulf War/Desert Storm
LCPL Noah Pier, Operation Enduring Freedom
HM3 Christopher Thompson, Operation Iraqi Freedom
I am not asking you to donate money, cancel your party or hang your head - instead rise up, lift your voice and REMEMBER those who've paid such a high cost. CELEBRATE their life. Find out what their favorite thing to do was and do it. Raise a glass in their memory and say a prayer for their family.
Memorial Day is a careful balance of American Pride - and Dutiful Reverence. You can bridge the gap - if you take the time to do so. If you are looking for something to do - join in with our community and honor the fallen - while celebrating your freedom.
Have a beautiful Memorial Day... make it mean something.
