On Monday, May 28, this year, Americans across this nation and located around the world will pause throughout the day to observe Memorial Day. Since its first official observation on May 5, 1868, when it was called Decoration Day, it has been a day of remembrance for those who sacrificed and died in our nation's service. And while it was originally dedicated to honor Civil War Soldiers, we know it today as a celebration in memory of all who have fought for and defended our right to freedom.
To those who died securing peace and freedom, to those who served in conflict to protect our land and sacrificed their dreams of the day to preserve the hope of our nation keeping America the land of the free for over two centuries, we owe our thanks and our honor. It is important not only to recognize their service but also to respect their devotion to duty and to ensure that the purpose for which they fought will never be forgotten.
The "Memorial" in Memorial Day has been ignored by too many of us who are beneficiaries of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. Often we do not observe the day as it should be: as a day where we actively remember our ancestors, our family members, our loved ones, our neighbors and our friends who have given the ultimate sacrifice.
Though a four-day weekend for those of us in uniform, I recommend we pay tribute by visiting cemeteries and placing flags or flowers on the graves of our fallen heroes; here on Fort Sam Houston, the Army Support Activity is looking for volunteers at 5 p.m. on May 25 to assist in putting American flags near head stones of our fallen heroes. You can also pay tribute by Visiting memorials; flying the U.S. flag at half-staff until noon; by participating in the "National Moment of Remembrance" at 3 p.m. by pausing and thinking upon the true meaning of the day, and for "Taps" to be played; or by renewing a pledge to aid the widows, widowers and orphans of our fallen, and to aid disabled veterans.
In his speech at Gettysburg, Abraham Lincoln's words focused on the loss of life during the Civil War and the higher cause for which the lives were given, but they ring true as a reminder for us today "that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion ... that this nation under God shall have a new birth of freedom, and that a government of the people, by the people, for the people, should not perish from this earth." Lincoln's charge was to ensure that the cause to which each Soldier gave their life would not be lost, and that the Union, which he himself had given an oath to preserve, protect and defend, would grow ever stronger.
Men and women of the 470th, I am very proud to serve each and every one of you professionals and experts. Remember that our philosophy -- Teamwork, Effective Communicators, Always Professional and More Heart -- in combination with our motto -- "Truth, Security, Loyalty" -- stand as reminders of that bond you created with the American people when you swore an allegiance, and took the oath to protect and defend our country against all enemies foreign and domestic. You are Americans...not Americant's!
Hooah!
VR
GRIFFIN 6
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