Memorial Day 2022

Memorial Day 2022

"All gave some. Some gave all."

Six words which encompass a multitude of meaning for Americans. On Memorial Day each year, we are charged with remembering the men and women of the military who have died in service to our nation. Every Soldier, Sailor, Marine, Airman and Guardian who takes an oath to support and defend the Constitution gives up some of their rights to take on the responsibilities of being on the front lines. During the 246 years of the United States' existence, we have called on our armed forces to defend not only our country but foreign countries as well. Unfortunately, many service members made the ultimate sacrifice in answering our nation's call.

Because less than 1% of living Americans are serving or have served in the military, it is easy to think that the military, or the separate branches are monolithic units the nation uses from time to time. But the military consists of Americans from every walk of life who decided to forgo the comforts of modern life to learn skills and be part of a brotherhood of arms that most Americans do not know. And when they are called to leave their families and deploy overseas, they go, not to spread democracy, not to preserve our way of life, but they go because their brother- or sister-in-arms needs them. It is not for their family back home or their ideals they hold that they will charge the machine guns of Normandy or fight in the jungles of Vietnam or stand guard in Afghanistan -- it is for their fellow Soldier or Marine next to them. And it is for their fellow Solider or Marine they laid down their lives.

Before grilling or enjoying a cold beverage this Memorial Day, take time to visit a military cemetery:

• Alton National Cemetery, Alton, IL
• North Alton Confederate Cemetery, Alton, IL
• Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO

Not everyone buried will have been killed in war or conflict, but each stood and "gave some" knowing "some would give all."