Today is Memorial Day. I want to write down my feelings about today, because I have a long family history of military service.

My father and both my grandfathers served in the military. I lived on and near many military bases. While I have not served myself, I am grateful for the men and women who defend this country. I know that there are many reasons that people enlist but there is always a realization that they must be willing to be deployed to defend the freedom that is so precious to us. I admire that.

With so many opportunities open to Americans, I am proud that our country still has men and women who are willing to join the Armed Forces. I am humbled that so many men and women are willing to put our society above themselves because they believe so strongly in the ideals that America espouses.

I would like to salute my family members who have served. Please let me know if I have forgotten anyone.

Lyle J
John H
Arthur J
Kim J
Sheila J
Ken W
David G