Of all the federal holidays we celebrate, Memorial Day is both cheerful and somber. It is a day of observance focused on remembering and thanking the countless Americans in uniform who have given their lives for this country. Memorial Day is truly about acknowledging those heroic individuals and the remarkable sacrifices they made.
As the proud daughter of a military veteran and someone who has a cherished nephew currently serving in the Armed Forces, I am especially aware of those personally affected by losing loved ones who served. While the focus of Memorial Day is to honor those who have given their lives to protect the United States, I also want to acknowledge those who have lost a family member or friend and those who have served alongside the people who lost their lives in service to our country.
As I’ve stated before, military veterans are a pillar of our AME community. You play a significant role in the organizations that we serve, and your military training complements the lean, continuous improvement training that AME provides. As a reminder, AME offers free membership to our veterans and those currently serving in the military.
As we take time to quietly reflect on all that we are grateful for, I’d like to share the following quote by Harry S. Truman, “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.”
Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend, and please remember to take a moment to honor those who gave their lives so you can enjoy yours. Heroes live on forever in the hearts and minds of those who would follow in their footsteps.
As always, please stay safe and keep looking out for one another.
