I just searched our local paper The Hometown Weekly which covers the communities of Medfield, Dover, Sherborn, Westwood, Walpole, and Needham, MA for Memorial Day events in our area. I learned that flags have been placed on the graves of veterans by local groups throughout our area. All have ceremonies planned to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for us.
Every Memorial Day, in towns throughout our country, we pause to remember those who given their lives in defense of our nation and in support of our great freedoms. They are soldiers, men and women, from all generations and all walks of life who answered the call of duty.
The true meaning of Memorial Day has, at times, been diluted by its characterization as the “Unofficial Start of Summer” and because, in times of peace, we sometimes forget the tragedy and sacrifice endured. But Memorial Day has never been forgotten.
Events like the recent Boston Marathon bombings and September 11th are very painful reminders of how precious our freedom is and our national reactions of strength and determination personify the heroic men and women we honor on Memorial Day.
Just as soldiers have answered the call of duty to defend and protect our nation, it is our duty to make sure their sacrifice will never be forgotten. So this Memorial Day check your local paper to make sure you don’t miss one opportunity to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Contributed to the Masters Touch blog by Matthew Hurley.