Sunday, May 29, 2011

Lessons out of school

Monday, May 30 is Memorial Day. Goochland American legion Post 215 will hold an observance on the Courthouse green at 10 a.m. The rain location is the high school.

There will be flags, speakers, uniformed service members, patriotic music and veterans— small town Americana at its best. This is when we, as a nation, pause to remember those who have died defending freedom and pray for those who go in harm’s way to protect our way of life. Such reflection is a necessary part of citizenship.

Please come and bring your children and grandchildren. Teach them how to honor our flag. Take off their ball caps, put their hands over their hearts when Old Glory passes by and the national anthem is played. It’s the least you can do.

Those we honor and remember on Memorial Day made it possible for us to question authority and bellyache publicly about whatever we choose. They will never again attend a barbecue or ballgame. Their places at family gatherings will be forever empty.

Think about that as you enjoy the holiday. Kids, dead with their lives ahead of them guaranteed your right to publicly complain, without fear of reprisal, about your elected officials. Men and women in the prime of life laid down their lives so you could vote.

Take a peek at our Constitution. Every right promised there is guaranteed by the blood of our troops.

Remember their sacrifice on Memorial and every day. Thank a sailor (God Bless the SEALs), Marine, soldier, airman and Coasty for their service and the sacrifice of their comrades.

Be sure to explain what it all means to your kids so they will not forget. It’s up to you to pass it on.

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