Serviceman, firefigher: Memorial Day very important, personal

Memorial Day, foremost, is the start of summer; swim parties, BBQs, hanging out with family and friends. Tradition states it’s a day that we remember those who have passed away while serving in the Armed Forces.

To me, Memorial Day is very important and personal.

It is a time in which I can remember my dad, grandfather and great grandfather all at once. All of them served in the Armed Forces during major conflicts: WWI, WWII and the Vietnam War. My father served the longest, 24 years, retiring from the AZ Air National Guard as a pilot. My dad, grandfather and great grandfather were fortunate enough to have made it back home to their families, though many of their friends did not. 

It’s also a time I take out my history box tucked away in my closet and read letters my grandfather wrote while serving in the Army stationed in the South Pacific. He was assigned to the Bushmasters headquartered here in Arizona. This unit was involved in many campaigns on the Japanese controlled islands in the Pacific. Each letter my grandfather wrote was very touching as he did not know if he would see his son, my father, again. Reading these letters put more emphasis on the meaning of Memorial Day for me.

A lot of sacrifices have been made through the years from the conflicts that our country has been involved in. Even though my ancestors were never laid to rest during conflict, thousands of our men and women have passed. This Memorial Day will be no different; I will remember those who have served and fly my flag proudly.

Come this Memorial Day, I will be out barbecuing and swimming, like most Americans, and enjoying the company of my family. Most importantly, I will be taking the time to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice allowing us to enjoy this holiday.