Daniel J. Paul

On this cherished ground, hushed silence accompanied the breeze that ever so gently stirs the hundreds of flags. Suddenly, it increases, and the flags begin waving in unison. This serves as a reminder to all of us to never forget the sacrifices our military personnel endured for the cherished way of life that we enjoy today.

Throughout our nation’s 250 years, these sacrifices were made in both foreign and domestic wars, where hundreds of thousands of American lives were lost. Their graves dot the landscape where they fought battles — some identified, while others whose names have been washed away by the sands of time.

Millions of others have been wounded. The pain that they endure is not always visible to the naked eye. Oftentimes their pain lies hidden beneath the clothes they wear — a heavy burden of deep emotional and mental scars.

Other tens of millions have served when they were drafted or after they volunteered; even if they did not serve during times of war or conflict, their sacrifices cannot be diminished. Their service alone is their sacrifice as they never knew when a conflict would arise, and our nation would call on them to protect our country.

Supporting our sons and daughters were their families. They, too, have sacrificed with the waiting, wondering, hoping, and praying that their loved ones were safe. Some received a call, letter, text, or email informing them that their soldier/sailor/airman/marine was safe. Others answered the knock on the door and were met by two soldiers.

As we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, let us commit (or recommit) ourselves to maintain the way of life that they fought so gallantly to preserve. The breeze ever so gently stirring the hundreds of flags on this cherished ground reminds us to never forget, never forget, never forget …

“If these soldiers could return and see where we are today, what do you think they would say to us?”