Memorial Day 2011 "My thoughts"

This Memorial Day this year seems different for me. This day of remembrance and reflection will have a taste of accomplishment, of vindication, for the lives lost in America's war on terror.Memorial Day is the one-day set aside to remember the greatest sacrifice that men and women who have fought and died for America.

There have been many wars, and there has been much blood spilled by, and many tears shed for, brave Americans who went to battle for us. A resolution approved by Congress in 2000 states that we shall participate in a quiet reflection at 3 p.m. Memorial Day to honor those lost in war.Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades.

Traditional observance of Memorial Day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored or neglected. Most people no longer remember proper flag etiquette for the day. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades. Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country.

A couple weeks ago, brave Navy SEALS participated in a raid that resulted in the death of Osama bin Laden. This did not mark the end the war on terrorism. It doesn’t bring troops home or help with the conflict in Afghanistan and Iraq, but it does mean that those who went to war in the fall of 2001 to protect America and to stop al-Qaida did not sacrifice for a futile effort. Those of us who are the beneficiaries of that sacrifice owe them, Memorial Day, at least three minutes of reflective gratitude.