Today we honor and remember all the brave men and women who gave their lives for the freedoms we know today. It is because of their sacrifices that we can vote for the persons of our choice, have our own views on different topics, march in protest and support, and practice our religion in our own way.
We think, too, of all they missed by dying so young—seeing their children graduate from school, get married, and maybe having grandchildren. We think of the great loss to their families.
When I see the flag at half-staff today, it seems to be bowing its head in sorrow along with us. When at noon it is raised to full staff, it seems to blow freely proclaiming the freedoms we know because of them.
And today we say thank you to you. We also remember all Gold Star Mothers, families, and all who loved and cared about you. We pledge that we, too, will always remember. And so, rest now in God’s eternal peace.
—Bernadette R. Gentry