Opinion

Why we celebrate Memorial Day

Friday, May 28, 2010

Memorial Day ceremonies throughout Nebraska are always awe-inspiring as Nebraskans turn out by the thousands to honor those who gave their lives in the service of our country, those who are currently serving in our military and veterans whose sacrifices will never be forgotten.

As we spend time with our families we should pause for a moment to think about those who are serving our country today in Iraq and Afghanistan, and remember that they are fighting to protect all Americans.

We all know that since the war on terrorism began, Nebraska has experienced losses and on Memorial Day in particular we again remember and mourn those brave members of our military. We can never forget that these Americans gave their lives for our nation. And we must honor their memory by supporting our troops and thanking them for the sacrifices they have made.

They sacrificed so that our nation would be stronger, so that the promise of equality and liberty would spread throughout the world.

No matter what our views are on any other issues -- we stand by our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines. I don't think we, as a nation, can express our gratitude for their duty adequately or sufficiently.

We can, however, continue to recognize their service both in thought and deed. We recognize their service by continuing to honor all that they have given this country and by ensuring that they have their nation's full support.

It's important that we not just remember those who have fallen in defense of this nation -- we also must honor what they died for.

We would be doing a real disservice to all those who died if we forgot that they gave their lives for a reason.

They gave their lives so that our children and grandchildren could have a better tomorrow. They gave their lives for the promise that was first made over two hundred years ago.

The promise is that all are free, all can and should have a say in our government, all are entitled to justice and all are equal.

Memorial Day marks the beginning of another beautiful summer in Nebraska, so let's enjoy it. Just make sure that the meaning of this important American holiday is not lost by taking a few moments to attend a ceremony or just to remember our military, past and present and especially those who gave their all.

Without them, none of this would be possible.

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