Memorial Day "Thank You"

Many of us in the U.S. have come to think of Memorial Day as the three day weekend that kicks off the summer. It’s a time to go to the beach for the first time, watch the Indy 500 and/or the Coca Cola 600 and BBQ with friends.

But, there is such a deeper meaning than that. The true meaning of the holiday sometimes gets lost in our frantic rush to start summer. Memorial Day is the time to commemorate U.S. men and women who died during military service to our country. It’s a time to remember all of those we have lost, say “thanks”, if even in a silent prayer, and show kindness to the families they left behind.

For me personally, it’s also been a time to remember those who are serving, and who did serve -those who are very much alive and giving selflessly of themselves. Take the time to thank them for all they have done, and continue to do, so we can all live the lives we live. So we can go out on that long bike ride or ride down the highway or along a winding country road on a motorcycle - all without fear. We are free to wander where we may. So we can go to the beaches and the mountains and the lakes on our long weekend and know that we are as safe as we can be.

Now, things have changed quite a lot since 2001, and we need to be more vigilant here in the States, but when you look at the unrest in many other parts of the world, please do count your blessings. Those blessings are on Naval ships around the world, they are in Air Force planes and on the ground in Marine, Army and National Guard uniforms.

Please take the time to thank those around you who serve, or who have served. And, if they are far away, in one of those unsafe places, say a prayer for their safe return.

My personal thanks go to each and every one of the troops past and present, but especially those who have touched my world the most and served our country….my dad, George D., John K., Ronnie H., Pete K., Brian T., Sev, Rich S. and, in the Kryptonite family, Gustavo and Roby.

Gustavo

Roby

Thankfully, they are all out of harms way, but there are those who, courageously and unselfishly, still are out there doing their best to keep all that we hold near and dear safe..….in my world that means two I consider family, John and Travis (I’m so proud of you guys)….and Miss Meg, of course….and Eric, who is in the middle of it all right now. Please do keep them all in your prayers.

John

Travis with colleagues

To Eric and this brave unit...prayers for a safe return

Stay safe, my friends. And Thank You!