Memorial Day is our nation’s commemoration of the sacrifices made by those whose lives were\u00a0lost for the freedoms we hold sacred.<\/p>\n
Whether our veterans survived their military service, or were killed on the field of battle, our country owes each of them, and their families, a debt of gratitude.<\/p>\n
As we look back at the wars proposed by presidents, declared by Congress, and supported to varying degrees by our citizens, let’s remember that none of these conflicts were or, to this day, are immune from political and social controversy.<\/p>\n
But we should never confuse debate over military policy with the need to be respectful of those whose lives are at risk on the battlefield, in the air, or on the seas.<\/p>\n
Our nation has been the destination of choice for great waves of immigrants from the world’s most frightening and repressive nations.\u00a0 Perhaps your family has its story of freedom-seeking relatives.<\/p>\n
Be very conscious of the history of\u00a0our African-American neighbors whose ancestors came shackled in the holds of slave ships, and Native-Americans whose ancestors were slaughtered or subjected to racist cruelties.<\/p>\n
As Americans we should know our own history and\u00a0should passionately advocate so that the children of\u00a0all families can enjoy the opportunity to be free from the threats of injustice, oppression and terror.<\/p>\n
Our\u00a0freedoms were earned, bled for, and in many cases, died for.<\/p>\n
Memorial Day presents the chance to gather our thoughts and honor the military service of our parents and grandparents, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, aunts, uncles and cousins.<\/p>\n
These individuals\u00a0either volunteered or drafted, wore the uniform of our armed forces, and gave all or a portion of their lives in service to our nation and its allies.<\/p>\n
In honor of those\u00a0we’ve lost, let’s not be passive about the importance of their sacrifice.\u00a0 In their honor, let’s pledge to participate in the following advocacy activities:<\/p>\n
In honor of the fallen, let\u2019s recommit to a brighter future for all generations.<\/p>\n
Excerpts taken from author Jack Levine, Founder, 4Generations Institute<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Memorial Day is our nation’s commemoration of the sacrifices made by those whose lives were\u00a0lost for the freedoms we hold sacred. Whether our veterans survived their military service, or were killed on the field of battle, our country owes each … Continue reading