Sabine’s DAV chapter is extending an invitation to the public to attend the annual Memorial Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. at the LA War Veterans Memorial and Park located at 29336 LA-191. There will be a guest speaker along with many veterans and their families. A meal will be provided afterward and time for fellowship with each other.
For many Americans, the last Monday in May marks the unofficial start of summer—a long weekend with a family barbecue or gathering of friends. For those who served in the military, Memorial Day holds a greater significance, as it commemorates the brave men and women who lost their lives defending our great nation.
At the core of our military lie unique themes: the selfless desire to serve and the willingness to sacrifice to defend our nation. The origin of Memorial Day, first observed over 155 years ago and then known as Decoration Day, was to beautify the graves in memory of those who fought and died to preserve our union during the Civil War. The holiday’s name obviously changed over the years, but its ideals and intention have not.
It’s a day all Americans should take a moment to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Memorial Day is a day for both grief and celebration, reflecting on the tragic loss of life and recounting the courageousness of their ser- vice.
As President Harry Truman stated in his address to the armed forces after the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt: “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices. Because of these sacrifices, the dawn of justice and freedom throughout the world slowly casts its gleam across the horizon.”
The respect and admiration we give our fallen pay tribute to their memory and the lives they lived. We do so by visiting their gravesites or placing flags, wreaths or other mementos at memorials in our communities.
But their final resting place should not be the only space where we gather, share memories or sit in quiet contemplation.
To truly honor their lives, we must share their stories with others and ensure their memories live on even though they are gone.