We Thank You For Your Service and Sacrifice

Each year, on Memorial Day, Americans come together to honor the brave men and women who have served, or currently serve, in our military. It is a day dedicated to recognizing the commitment, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication of those who protected our nation. Let’s all take the time to express our gratitude to all active-duty service members across the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. Here’s a bit of history and reflection on their ultimate sacrifice to our great nation. We thank you!!

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, originated after the Civil War to honor those who died in service, evolving from decorating graves to recognizing all American military personnel who died in any conflict. Following the Civil War, communities began to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers, marking the start of what would become Memorial Day. 

In 1868, General John A. Logan, commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), a Union veteran’s organization, called for a national day of remembrance, “Decoration Day,” on May 30th, to decorate the graves of Union soldiers. While initially focused on Civil War casualties, the holiday’s scope expanded after World War I to honor all American military personnel who died in service. 

By the late 1800s, many states had declared it a legal holiday, and in 1971, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, establishing Memorial Day as the last Monday in May with ceremonies, parades, and visits to cemeteries to honor those who have died in service to the United States. 

Throughout history, the men and women of the United States Armed Forces exemplified courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to duty. Whether stationed at home or deployed abroad, they stood ready to protect our nation and its people. Their dedication is evident not only in times of war but also in humanitarian efforts, disaster relief, and peacekeeping missions here at home and across the globe.

Active service members today make immense personal sacrifices, spending long periods away from their families, enduring rigorous training, and placing themselves in harm’s way to ensure our safety. Their courage and resilience are a testament to the values of duty, honor, and patriotism.

Here are ways to observe Memorial Day and show appreciation for those who gave so much and serve in uniform now:

Attend local events: Many communities host parades, air shows, or military exhibitions to celebrate the day. The Memorial Day parade in my hometown is followed by speeches and an outdoor concert by our Middle School children.  I love it when they play the medley of military branch songs, veterans stand, and the audience applauds their service.

Support military charities: Organizations such as the USO, Wounded Warrior Project, and Fisher House Foundation provide crucial support to service members and their families. Give what you can.

Express gratitude: A simple “thank you” to an active-duty service member or veteran can go a long way.

Fly the American flag: We do every day here at KHT Headquarters. Displaying the national flag is a visible way to honor those who serve.

Learn and share: Educate yourself and others about the sacrifices of our armed forces and share their stories of bravery and dedication, especially with your children and grandchildren.

To all those who serve and have served, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your dedication, bravery, and sacrifice do not go unnoticed, and we honor you not just today, but every day.

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