In the U.S., it's Memorial Day...

a three-day weekend, but it's easy to forget the reason for the day, to remember those who died in service to their country.

Here's one of the more poignant musical remembrances, often called an "anti-war song"...but who is "pro-war?" And we Americans need to remember it hasn't been just us fighting for freedom, etc.

And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda

Our November 11th Remembrance Day seems to be the same as your Memorial Day although only some institutions have November 11th off as a holiday - for the rest of us, we usually have a 2 minute silence at 11 am.

Thoughts and prayers to all those who fought for your country.

Well, you can google Memorial Day and find its history. We also celebrate November 11, which used to be called "Armistice Day," but is now called Veterans Day.

I will admit that I'm not the biggest patriot, but that doesn't mean I don't have respect for those soldiers who fought and/or died for us. If it weren't for them, then I might not be able to even type that I'm not a big patriot.

I'm remembering, and sending my thanks to those who sacrificed.

My father, and most of my uncles, served in WWII, and later. While they all did come home from their wars, they saw things that are forever etched in their minds. One of my uncles to this day will not speak to anyone who wasn't there about what he saw. My father served in a sub at the tail end of WWII, in the Pacific. I have a friend who is about to retire at a full 20 years serving this country in the Navy. He deployed to Iraq in this war alone at least three times. He also served in the Gulf War.

Amanda

Moment of silence for all who fought and died for our freedom. My heartfelt thanks for your service.

Someone on another forum posted this one...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxJf9...eature=related

to all our veterans and current service men and women.

Due to the draft, the vast majority of young men served at least some time in the military, starting in December of 1941. All of Dottie's uncles did, except one. Her dad was a B-17 mechanic in England during the war, and even that was plenty unpleasant (he had to clean out the airplanes after every mission, for one thing).

I was hoping to make it to the cemeteries today, but my body had other ideas.

My Dad served in Korea and there were things he would not talk about. Mom said she would wake up and Dad would be in the kitchen, drinking coffee, after having a nightmare.

Right now I have a cousin, an army engineer, and a dear friend - also in the army, on active duty. I have not heard from my friend (sort of a little brother to me) for a while. Last I heard, he was in Afghanistan. I'm hoping he responds to my email soon.

I admit I have teared up while watching the TV coverage of cemetery services and thinking of my friend.

We went on Saturday.

Our tradition is to take the flower boxes up on Memorial day weekend, visit and water them every week or so, take the out on labor day weekend.

This year was the first time in ages that I was able to go to the cemetery.

I've always been greatful for those of the past that've sacrified for us, but since my husbands been in the service, and since I've attended several memorials myself for soilders that he's faught with and didn't make it home, it makes me even more greatful for it all.

To those whose lives were taken from them in saving the rest of us, I thank you

I posted this to my Facebook status:
"Thinking about the reason for today has had me near tears most of this morning. Thank you, to all the men and women who have served in the past, who serve now, and those who will serve in the future. While many relish the day free from work, many others celebrate the sacrifices you have made. I also want to thank your families, for their support of you. Thank you!!!!!!"

My grandfather served in the Korean war, in the Navy. I have a soft spot for our military men and women.

Dottie's dad and one of her brothers is buried in a national cemetery not too far from where they live. Just a small place, but nice nonetheless.