The Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center in Iron Mountain. (Betsy Bloom/Daily News file photo)

Soon after the Civil War ended, Americans began to recognize the sacrifice of those who fought and died for what they believed; that their lives were less important than their cause. This is what President Abraham Lincoln called “… the last full measure of devotion.”

That day of remembrance was recognized as Decoration Day. One hundred years later, Decoration Day gave way to Memorial Day, and today we remember the more than 646,596 American troops who have died in battle, and the 539,000 more who died in other, non-combat-related situations since the end of the Revolutionary War.

These men and women were then and are today the ones who gave that last full measure to allow the freedoms that we enjoy. Their sacrifice defines the purpose we serve here at the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center.

Unfortunately, this year we will be unable to conduct our annual Memorial Day remembrance ceremony because of restrictions caused by the pandemic. We will, however, welcome the Tribute Riders for a short, socially distanced outdoor ceremony with the veterans in our Community Living Center.

There will be other, smaller observances within the walls of the hospital. Veterans might gather and talk of their experiences and fondly remember their buddies who didn’t make it home. Some of our employees working on Memorial Day may take time to pause for a moment of silence with a veteran for whom they are providing care. Others may take a moment alone to remember a family member or friend who is no longer with us.

Flags line the circle drive on our campus. This drive is dedicated to one of those service members who was killed giving that last full measure. Sgt. 1st Class James D. Priestap was a VA employee when he deployed with the 46th Military Police Company to Iraq for combat operations in July 2006. He was killed by a sniper’s bullet on Thanksgiving Day 2006 while on duty at a checkpoint in Baghdad.

When veterans approach the medical center, they will see the symbol of our nation flying in all its glory. This is our tribute to not only our country, but those who have served it. A display of the gratitude that we, as public servants, have for those who fight against our nation’s foes. And, more importantly, stand next to each other and fight together for those on their left or their right.

At the VA, we understand that Memorial Day is rather a remembrance, an observance, or honoring than a holiday or celebration. Every day, but especially today, we honor those who gave that last full measure to keep us safe and free. The sacrifices of our fallen shall never be forgotten.