Every year, Memorial Day is set apart to remember the fallen soldiers of the United States Military. 

We often spend this day around family and friends, cooking out and enjoying the day off as an unofficial start to summer. 

However, there is an oft neglected solemnity to this special day. Namely, we are here; they are not. They gave all so we could live our lives in the freest nation on earth. 

Recently, I’ve spent time contemplating the events of World War II. The existential threat of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan loomed large. After the base in Pearl Harbor was attacked, the U.S. decidedly entered the conflict. It became clear that this evil would not simply leave us alone; we would need to confront it and defeat it. 

Over 400,000 U.S. lives were lost in that war. For perspective, that is the equivalent of the entire populations of Pittsburgh and Scranton. Those brave men and women laid down their lives, and, in doing so, victoriously secured freedom for theirs and following generations. 

Today, the values that have made America so exceptional are once again under vicious attack. The freedom to speak one’s mind and exchange ideas, the freedom to peaceably assemble, the freedom to follow one’s conscience in religious matters, and the freedom to bear arms in defense of ourselves are all being questioned. A large portion of our own countrymen appear ready to discard the blessed liberties that so many have fought and died to protect. 

This is where you and I come in. You and I may honor the memory of our fallen soldiers by doing all we can to preserve the legacies of freedom and liberty this country was founded upon. This present moment in our nation’s history is a time for bravery. It is time for each of us to boldly stand for the good, the true, and the beautiful. It is time to reignite our zeal in defending our founding principles. It is time to unashamedly embrace and teach them to the next generation. We each must stand tall and play our part. 

What are we prepared to sacrifice for freedom?

This Memorial Day, please take a few minutes to remember those who gave that “last full measure of devotion,” and then consider how you might personally honor their memory. 

They did their duty. It is time for us to do the same. Let not their sacrifice be in vain.