Memorial Day was a beautiful day and the service we went to was touching, beautiful and more than a few tears were shed as we remembered and honored our fallen. Memorial Day is much more than a three-day weekend that marks the beginning of summer.
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To many people, especially the nation’s thousands of combat veterans, this day, which has a history stretching back all the way to the Civil War, is an important reminder of those who died in the service of their country. They died to preserve our freedom, our liberty and our special nation.
Pictured above: The USCG drops a wreath in Memoriam
As I stood there during the service with my family, I felt blessed and sad at the same time. Sad for all of those families who have lost their loved ones during wartime. Especially with Jake having come home just a week prior from Afghanistan and Matthew in December, I shuddered knowing it very well could have been us laying a rose on the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in remembrance of our sons. Honestly, it was a little tough for all of us, as the boys reflected on friends and brothers lost and us thinking about what could have been, but it was in great honor that we stood there shoulder to shoulder. Together.
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Pictured Above: Oceanview Cemetery Memorial Day Service
The honor guards for the service were Justin and Jacob Guathier~twin brothers~that went to school with our kids and also have served our Country. Justin, a veteran, served in the USMC, his brother Jacob, is currently serving in the US Army. One by one wreaths were placed in remembrance of fallen soldiers and Marines. The US Coast Guard flew over and dropped a wreath into the water...it was beautiful and touching as they were saluted by those on land. The colors of the flags, the wreaths and what each stood for....the tears of mothers and fathers placing roses on the tomb of the Unknown Soldier in memory of their sons and daughters and comrades remembering comrades. Memorial day is yes, more than a three day weekend for picnics and parties. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance of this countries heroes, who have fought and given us the freedom to live in a great country such as ours. Let's not forget, ever, that it hasn't come free, but with the price being higher than some could imagine. Let us not ever forget that. Next Memorial Day, make sure you fly your flag in respect and honor of our fallen heroes. Stop and whisper, "thank you" and place your hand over your heart with pride and gratitude, for this day is for them. Our fallen heroes and we have much to thank them for.
Pictured Above: Jessi, Jake, Justin & Jacob Guathier, Matthew and Jodi
