In Memorium

Today is Memorial Day. When I was younger it only meant a three day weekend a couple weeks before school let out. Now, however, it has taken on a different meaning.

Most people think of Memorial Day as a time to honor those men and women who have died in military service to this country, but I think we can take it a step farther.

This year, when I stand in unity with millions of others during the National Time of Silence at 3 p.m., I will be remembering the family members that I have lost and the friends I no longer have contact with.

I will also be thinking about the countless thousands of soldiers who have given their lives proudly defending the freedoms that I have. In a time when political discourse becomes loud and sometimes violent and discussions about our military actions abroad are incensed, we often forget that the people wearing uniforms chose to serve in a way that few are courageous enough to.

I, too, have friends in the military. In fact, one of my best friends from high school just got back from his tour in Iraq. I can not, and will not try, to imagine the horrible things he has seen in a combat zone. We can't agree on anything politically, but I will always respect him for sacrificing his time for this country.

The next time you are watching a sporting event, even on television, I ask you to do me a favor. When the announcer asks the audience to rise for the singing of the national anthem, stand up. I don't know if anybody else knows soldiers, but I know that I will be standing up because it is the least I can do to recognize Stan's efforts. It is the least I can do to let those around me know that I am proud to be an American.

If we remember why the troops died and not just that they died, I think Memorial Day services will mean more to all of us. I am not a fan of the conflict in Iraq, but on this day it doesn't matter. I don't like that George Bush sent more than 3,000 men and women my age to their deaths. Those people chose to go and because of that I will remember them with pride. They signed a paper stating that not only did they believe in this country, but that they were willing to fight and die for this country. I think we can focus on them instead of Paris Hilton for one day.