As with all the holiday weekends, to most citizens, this is a day for BBQ's and parties. An extra day off to celebrate, relax, be with family, etc.
To some; those that served and lost a friend, a husband, a wife, a son, or daughter in combat or during training exercises, this day has a different meaning.
I am one of the roughly 7% that has served and look at this day differently. With the Cold War being my conflict for service, I have no buddy or relative killed during my service but, I did have hometown young men friends who came home from Vietnam in flag draped coffins. I think of these men on this day specifically.There were casualties during the Cold War.
Last week I attended a military retirement ceremony that became an impromptu family reunion. My nephew, John Holovich retired as an Air Force LtCol after 23 years of service. He is an F-15 Eagle driver. Part of the ceremony was to honor a fallen comrade who died in 2014 during a training accident. They had an open seat in front with "Moose's" (his call sign) flight suit displayed on it. A memorial flag was ceremoniously presented to "Moose", in absentia. I was deeply moved by the honor these men and women displayed for their fallen comrade.
I also look at this day with gratitude. Gratitude for all the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country. Men like "Moose". May they all rest in peace.
Please Remember and Honor all warriors that gave up their lives so we can be free.
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