I typically aim to post on days that start with “T”, but today is a notable exception. In the United States, we are celebrating Memorial Day. On this day, we honor U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Since 1868, America has set aside a single day each year to remember the noble sacrifice of the noble few.
Noble Memories
We often talk about the noble sacrifice made by our armed forces personnel but such poetic language fall short. There are certainly those who gave their lives in the name of God and Country, making a noble sacrifice for a greater cause. There is something about them that draws them to this duty with a fervor I cannot comprehend. For these, I am truly grateful.
Alongside these heroes are those who enlisted out of necessity. From being drafted to simply needing a solid job in order to provide for themselves or their family, they sign up. Their noble sacrifice is no more insignificant. Often, their heroic story focuses on simply being a loyal provider to those they love.
Noble Sacrifice
Every soldier, sailor, airman, marine, and coast guardsman who has given their life in the line of duty is a noble sacrifice. They did their part and stood in the breach. Why they chose to serve is of little consequence. They are a part of our history that deserves to be remembered with the utmost respect. Without them, what would our history actually look like?
Noble Few
Since 1775, over 1.3 million servicemen have given their lives in just the major wars our nation has fought alone. One number offers a count of 7,057 U.S. service members killed in post-9/11 war operations as of July 2021.
Remembering the noble sacrifice is good. But it is not nearly what our armed services deserve. We can and must do better for those who take up arms to defend our freedoms.
