U.S. Memorial Day in USA Honors Fallen Soldiers in Uniforms

Tuesday 25th of May 2010 05:26:30 AM

The men and women of the armed forces are remembered on special days each year. In the United States, there is a Memorial Day to honor the dead and a Veteran’s Day to honor all those who have or are serving in the military. But the United States is certainly not the only country that recognizes people wearing the uniforms that indicate a willingness to give ultimate service to a nation. In the United Kingdom there is Poppy Day or Remembrance Sunday and recently Veteran’s Day was added. New Zealand, Canada and many other countries choose a day on which its citizens can give honor to the living and the dead.

There is no greater deed a person can do than to give up their life for others. People have fought in wars since history has been recorded and world events prove they will continue to fight for many more years. Currently it is the war in Afghanistan that has led to hundreds of thousands of soldiers fighting to free the world of threats.

On Memorial Day or Remembrance day, it is not the victories or defeats that are remembered. It is the people who gave of themselves. Nations remember men and women who sacrifice time with their families and friends and show only courage in the face of physical threats. These soldiers in uniforms from different branches of the military serve with honor and bravery and are dedicated professionals. It is only right to take some time to remember their efforts – past and present – because they do a very special job that not just anyone can do.

But most of all, it is important to remember that those soldiers who look so much alike in their uniforms are flesh and blood. They have families and look forward to a future. They love and laugh and fear but always with grace and style. When Memorial Day or Remembrance Sunday, or whatever the holiday is named, rolls around, it’s important to take a moment and give thanks that these people are willing to put their future at risk for us. We salute you all and wish you God speed.

©Image by Fabrizio Turco, www.sxc.hu