How do you celebrate the death of a fallen soldier? Is one day out of the year really enough time to show our thanks to those who have laid down their lives for our way of living?
Memorial Day is an underappreciated holiday that honors those who have paid the ultimate price for this great country. Memorial Day is for the men and women who gave their lives for a greater purpose.
We should show our appreciation for all of the fallen troops by doing something special for their families.
As an American, it is my duty to serve my country in any way possible. According to the constitution, we all have a job. Our way of life in this great country did not happen overnight. It has taken a long time, countless bloodshed, and hard work to make America what it is today. Our earliest ancestors realized that freedom was important to this country ,and they also knew that freedom came at a price. Men and women paid the ultimate price, so that we could live in a world of freedom and opportunity.
I come from a family with a strong military background , and this has played a significant role in my life. I was instilled with a soldier’s discipline and morals. I was taught to never lie, cheat or steal.
We all have a part to play so that we can maintain our way of life. I have many family members in the military. Some are still alive , while others have passed away. Many of my family members have served this country without fear, or regret, and for them I am eternally grateful.
Memorial Day is not just another day for me, but a celebration which shows our individual appreciation for our loved ones, and all that they have sacrificed. I personally feel as though we should do more for the families that have lost more than others. Celebrating fallen soldiers is great; however, these soldiers’ families have suffered as well. This holiday is to let those people know that the loss of their loved ones has not been taken for granted and that they are very much appreciated.
I, for one, can say that I have lost many loved ones in the service of this country. There is nothing exciting about receiving visitors to your home to inform you that your son, daughter, husband or wife will not be returning home.
The death of a loved one leaves a huge hole in your heart ; a hole that is beyond difficult to fill. Wars have been around for centuries, and will continue to exist as long as the human race exists. Most wars are fought over pride, greed and power. It is not something that can be avoided over overlooked.
As long as we have war, we will always have a Memorial Day, and for that reason we should always appreciate our military service men and women.
Darrius Rose is a junior Kinesiology major from Shreveport.