Memorial Day

Today we learned that a USAF Academy cadet, who graduated a year after Nick, died in combat in Afghanistan the other day. Nick remembers her as being a class act and an excellent leader. He is honored to have known her. We are so saddened by her death and by the knowledge that her family will be suffering with a personal loss this Memorial Day.

When I was growing up, I knew Memorial Day was special. It was a day my dad would gather us together to put out the American flag and recite the Pledge of Allegiance, hands over our hearts. Although we never directly talked about the day's meaning, I could tell by my father's example that it was important.

At last year's Boulder Bolder my dad dedicated his run to my Great Uncle George's memory (he was killed in pilot training during WWII) and to Nick as he was serving in Afghanistan. I was touched. I was also reminded that Memorial Day is about remembering real people.

Our service men and women have given up the comforts of life to serve our country, wherever they are needed. They endure hardship, loneliness, emotional trauma, and much more than we will ever know. Some of them pay the ultimate price by giving their lives. But even if they come home alive, they have still given a part of their lives that will never be returned. They miss out on family get togethers, births, weddings, graduations, and holidays. Likewise, they miss out on the "smaller" events of life, like reading books to their children, giving them a bath, taking them to the park, or watching them learn to play with a new toy for the first time. Not being there for these things is a sacrifice in and of itself.

"Dear Heavenly Father,

As we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, we think of how they have followed in the footsteps of your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Please hold our service men and women in your strong arms. Cover them with your sheltering grace and presence as they stand in the gap for our protection.

We also remember the families of our troops, and ask for your unique blessings to fill their homes and your peace, provision and strength to fill their lives.

May the members of our armed forces be filled with courage to face each day and may they trust in the Lord's mighty power to accomplish each task. Let our military brothers and sisters feel our love and support.

In the name of Jesus. Amen."