Just Writing Through: A Somber Memorial Day

Over the last few years, I’ve had the great honor of working with, listening to and photographing a multitude of veterans. I’ve been even more blessed to call many of them friends.

Some have served during times of peace; some have served during times of war. Some have been wounded; some bear only invisible scars. Some have served on land, some in air, some on the ground.

There is but one thing that they all have in common: the uncommon willingness to put their lives on the line for others.

I can’t imagine the sacrifice one makes when he or she joins the military. I can’t imagine what it would be like to leave my children. I can’t imagine what it would be like to kiss my husband as he left for deployment.

Today, we honor those who have paid the ultimate price – who have given their lives for the freedoms we enjoy.

My children know that though there are many heroes in their lives – veterans who have genuinely and warmly opened their arms to my children and who teach them things only veterans can– there are some who never return.

This weekend, I covered the Nation of Patriots Tour for some publications. An American Flag will make its way through 48 states in 100 days and will return to its location of origin on Labor Day. Founder Bill Sherer grew the trip from a single man’s attempted journey, to an American Flag arriving in each state with ceremony and dignity. It was incredibly powerful to speak with the flag bearers and to talk to some of the people who were accompanying the flag on its journey. Even more incredible was the emotion behind the oath as the flag passed from one set of hands to the next.

This morning, my children watched as United States Marine Cpl. Timothy J. Crabb stood watch at the Killed In Action section of bricks of the veterans memorial (that he designed and spearheaded) at the Woodstock Harley-Davidson. My girls know that these men and women left, never to return. They fought valiantly and with courage.

We also attended the Memorial Day ceremony on the square where we listened to servicemen give tributes to fallen brothers and sisters.

And, later, we will spend time with family – not because we don’t care about the true meaning of Memorial Day, but because we do. What better way to explain the military to children, than by describing it as the family it is.

Thank you to all of the active-duty and veteran military men and women in our lives. We look up to you and cannot thank you enough for your service. I’ve seen your sacrifice and I’ve heard your stories. Thank you doesn’t seem like it is enough.

Today, we honor and remember those who gave all to their country. There are no words for that ultimate sacrifice.