MEMORIAL DAY

26-27MAY08. MONDAY-TUESDAY. Happy Memorial Day. A time for Family Picnics, Fun with Friends, and a time to reflect. I close my eyes and am quickly transported to a time and place where all my family and friends were nearby. Kids jumping in the water, family getting caught up on the latest “news” from all. Friends stopping by to grab a beer, share a joke and well-wishes for all. I open my eyes and look around to see Guards on the Base Walls, Jets taking off, Convoys departing, and Operations ongoing throughout the night/day. These events occur 24x7; every day, rain or shine, hot or cold. Yet, I can’t help but think of the folks who have come before me. My time here is getting short (relatively). I see new faces each and every day. Faces filled equally with awe, wonderment and dread. All together, these experiences with are not unique to Afghanistan. The same is shared with men and women in Iraq, Somalia, and the Philippines. More importantly, these experiences transcend time. Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield, Operation Southern/Northern Watch, and the Vietnam Conflict. These are just a few during my generation. Constant are the men and women who have sacrificed much to meet the call of duty. This is the spirit of Memorial Day. A time to recognize and reflect the folks who have made untold sacrifices. More importantly, those men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Take Time to simply recognize these men and women, toast them, and save a seat for them in the near future. Have a Great Memorial Day. God Bless all. Doug