In Memoriam

On this memorial day, I want to take a moment to express gratitude for those people who volunteer their young lives to our military forces, and who fight on my behalf.

I remember the day I submitted my obligatory registration for the Selective Service. For those of you who don’t recall, that’s the system you are put into in case there is ever a draft. I remember absolutely dreading the thought of there ever being a draft, and my total unwillingness to participate in bloodshed for any reason or for any cause.

Let’s face it, it was the 90’s and there was going to be peace on earth forever, right?

We all know that this isn’t the case. Today we face different threats than we’ve ever faced, and must fight wars in ways we’ve never dreamed of in the past. These are not only the soldiers in camouflage and laser guided missiles, but those secret, unassuming ‘soldiers’ who fight our wars in the back-channels, who linger in the shadows and baffles. You know who you are.

And so I thank those who have volunteered to guard my American Dream for me. We did not always have it so good in this country. Our fathers and grandfathers were conscripted into military service, putting their lives and families on hold, and often giving their fragile, young lives for our country.

So while we enjoy our barbecues and baseball games on this memorial weekend, with the intermittent thoughts of distant conflicts being waged half-way around the world, let’s take a moment and remember the one, the thousands, and the millions who have given their life so we can put that thick, juicy rib eye on the grill…