This Memorial Day, while you're out on your deck broiling up some burgers or basking in the May sun on the beach, stop for a moment and remember what Memorial Day is all about.

Think about the real reason you are able to sit back and relax and do these things, with your sincere religious beliefs unassaulted, your right to speak freely, your right to defend yourself and your home and family, etc.

Think about the sacrifices that have been made on your behalf by soldiers in every conflict. From the American Revolution to the War on Terror, literally millions of Americans have given their lives so that YOU can enjoy these freedoms. Their families have sacrificed sons and daughters, husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, uncles and aunts, cousins, friends, and the familial contributions that these people would have made had they not been killed in battle defending YOUR freedoms (and mine).

For these sacrifices I am forever grateful. Some months ago, I posted an appropriate tribute to those who have given their lives for us. Comment over here, though. I don't get over to that post much. It was a long time ago.

Anyway, keep the families and friends of those who have given their lives defending us and also those who will in the future.

RWR