Every day soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and coasties sacrifice so that we may enjoy the privileges of liberty, and they ask nothing in return. No one worthy of the uniform wears it for financial gain or personal glory. They wear it because they believe in something bigger than themselves. It is the idea behind the great experiment that is America. When troops say they love their country, it is not mere politics or institutions they hold dear. When troops salute the flag, it is not mere fabric dyed red, white, and blue; it is the values behind the symbol, values for which they fight and sometimes die to defend.

To honor veterans is not the same as advocating war. Surely, we can stand for peace and still support veterans. Those who are among us we can affirm personally. For those who have passed, we can honor their memory. For me, the whole point of dedicating a single day to their memory is simply a call to pause, acknowledge, and come away a little more appreciative.

May God’s blessings keep you this Memorial Day, and may He guide us all along toward lasting peace.