Memorial Day, 2026

“We are notorious for ‘running’ around self-righteously declaring our rights to this and to that. But if we were to reflect upon the millions who ‘ran’ across bloodied battlefields so that we would have rights to declare, I think we’d do a whole lot less declaring and a whole more appreciating.”
― Craig D. Lounsbrough

I didn’t enlist in the military right after high school; I joined at the age of 23. During basic training, I felt much older than most new recruits, who were typically 18 or 19 years old and perhaps had a more realistic mindset about military life. Thankfully, my 11 years of service coincided with a period of peace. However, there is always an understanding in the military that if a situation arises, you may find yourself in danger and, if called upon, you might not return home. I think this might tend to make one more appreciative of those who answered that call and did not return.

On Memorial Day, it’s easy to get caught up in the celebrations and activities surrounding the holiday. However, we must remember that each service member who did not return was a person—someone’s son or daughter, husband or wife, father or mother. Except for different circumstances and timing, they were us!

In the past, I have almost always displayed an American flag at my home every day to symbolize my pride in what our nation represents, even though, realistically, I recognize it hasn’t always lived up to those ideals. However, since the beginning of last year, I haven’t put up a flag. I believe our nation is backsliding, and those currently in positions of power no longer represent the intent of our forefathers or the majority of its citizens, and are clearly unfit for their offices. To be honest, I feel a bit ashamed of us as a nation at this moment, and as a veteran, that pains me greatly. It is with determination that I hold on to hope that this is only a temporary setback, or perhaps a reset toward a brighter future.

There will be a bright new American flag flying at my home today for Memorial Day, as a sign of deep respect and appreciation for those who sacrificed it all.

“On this day, take time to remember those who have fallen. But on every day after, do more; put the freedoms they died for to greater and nobler uses.”
― Richelle E. Goodrich, Slaying Dragons: Quotes, Poetry, & a Few Short Stories for Every Day of the Year