Reflecting on Sacrifice: A Call to Honor Our Heroes This Memorial Day

Memorial Day evokes complex emotions. The overarching theme is sacrifice, something that should invoke a sense of discomfort. That unease, however, can transform into profound gratitude and a commitment to honor those who served our nation in ways we may never fully understand.

For many Americans, Memorial Day signifies the unofficial start of summer. Celebrations often center around beach outings, barbecues, and shopping sales. Unfortunately, the deeper meaning of this solemn day often fades into the background, overshadowed by leisurely activities. However, for those who have served, Memorial Day serves as a powerful reminder of the friends and comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice.

One undeniable reality about war is the stark difference between the fallen and the living. While the former gave their all in a fleeting moment, the living continue to bear the weight of this sacrifice throughout their lives. This dichotomy makes Memorial Day not just a day of remembrance, but a day of reflection on our responsibilities as citizens.

Honoring the Legacy of Our Heroes

People like Lee Greenwood often emphasize the importance of remembering our heroes. He articulates a fervent message, urging Americans to never take freedom for granted. Memorial Day, indeed, calls us to honor individuals who served selflessly for love of country, often without seeking recognition or glory.

Their sacrifices were not made for political reasons. Instead, they were driven by a steadfast belief in the American ideal—by a vision of what our nation can achieve. This creates an unbreakable bond between those who live and those who have given their lives for a shared dream.

Understanding the Disconnection

Today, less than one percent of the American population serves in the military, and only a small fraction has worn a uniform. For many, this detachment from military life contributes to a lack of understanding of the sacrifices made. Yet, this is not a critique of civilian life but rather a reflection of the freedoms we enjoy because of the sacrifices made by others.

As time passes, Memorial Day seems to lose its meaning for many, becoming increasingly misunderstood and underappreciated. Bridging this gap requires genuine listening and an effort to learn the stories of those who have given everything.

Stories that Inspire and Educate

This year, FOX Nation is launching a compelling series titled “The Unsung of Arlington.” This series will honor five remarkable Americans interred at Arlington National Cemetery. Each narrative, from John Glenn to Jane Delano, serves as a testament to the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to our nation.

Understanding who these heroes were is a crucial step in honoring their lives. By recognizing their extraordinary contributions, we keep their legacies alive and encourage deeper connections to the meaning of this day.

Memorial Day’s True Essence

Memorial Day is not about glorifying armed conflict; rather, it serves as a reminder of the freedoms we enjoy because of those who sacrificed their lives. It is a day dedicated to individuals like Darrik Benson, John Brown, Shannon Kent, Joshua Wheeler, Edward Smith, and many more. These names may not headline news, yet their sacrifices resonate deeply within the hearts of Gold Star families and the comrades who fought alongside them.

A Day for Reflection and Connection

This day demands reflection—not celebration. It raises a vital question for the living: Are we living in a manner worthy of their sacrifices? The objective here is not to invoke guilt but to inspire mindful appreciation of the freedoms we possess.

On this Memorial Day, let us reflect on our safety, security, and opportunities, and consider the costs borne by those we may never meet. These thoughts can lead to a deeper appreciation for the peace we often take for granted.

Taking Action in Honor of the Fallen

Beyond mere reflection, we can take meaningful actions to honor those who served. Teach your children about the significance of this day. Raise a toast in memory of the fallen. Perhaps observe a moment of silence, allowing the discomfort of silence to transform into gratitude and resolve. It is through these actions that we can show our appreciation and commitment to living lives that honor their courage.

This Memorial Day, as you indulge in the freedoms you enjoy, pause to remember the sacrifices made for those very privileges. It is not merely a holiday. It stands as a poignant reminder, symbolized by a headstone.

A Covenant Between the Living and the Fallen

For those of us who returned home, for those who did not, and for those who were spared from combat—this day embodies a covenant we must not forget. It serves as a pledge, urging us to honor their sacrifices eternally.

Never forget, always honor. God bless America.

Authored by Mike Sarraille, host of the upcoming Fox Nation series “The Unsung of Arlington” and Kirk Offel, former Navy Submariner and CEO of Overwatch Mission Critical.