As the morning dew glistens off the crisp green grass 33 Buglers sound 24 notes. That too familiar sound of Taps echoes throughout our nation’s most hallowed ground. That stagnant smell of sulfur lingers in the air due to a 21 gun salute hours before. Another soldier is lowered in the ground after giving the ultimate sacrifice for the country we often take for granted.
Another soldier is buried and put to rest among the 400,000+ active duty service members and veterans. The next of kin is sits as a flag slowly becomes folded then handed to them with a few spoken words…
“On behalf of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one’s service to Country and Corps.”
Without warning seven men fire three times.. BANG..BANG.. BANG.. As the brass ejects and fall to the ground below.. Another 21 gun salute is completed.. Another one among the 20 or more funeral services performed on a daily basis at Arlington National Cemetery.
Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and Atheist all buried in the same place with the same soils here it’s not about what god you serve or don’t, but about the sacrifices made and the lives given for an idea..
239 years ago a small group of men got together and started a revolution that would build a nation. They built a nation off of an idea.. An idea of change and wanting a better tomorrow, an idea that has cost the lives of so many.(est. 1.5 million)
So on Monday when you fire up that new grill, crack open that cold beer, or walking around enjoying activities in your community. Take a moment and hold your kids, tell your spouse that you love them, take a moment to call your parents and grandparents if there still with you. Take a moment and appreciate everything you truly have… Most of all take a moment and remember all those who have fallen and the families who have gave the ultimate sacrifice so you can enjoy the life you have.…