Honor Those Who Defend Our Freedoms

The United States military and its leadership, including its civilian governance, are currently facing one of the greatest challenges since the end of the Cold War. The free world teeters on the edge of uncertainty regarding the events unfolding in Ukraine and other countries in the Middle East and Asia.

It is ironic that these troubling times come at the juncture of one of our country’s most important days, one in which Americans reflect on the cost of our freedom. Unfortunately, many people in our nation lose sight of this special and important day of remembrance. This is a day when Americans should bow their heads to honor the sacrifices that were made by so many throughout our nation’s history. It is a day that has been called many things, unfortunately there are some who only refer to it as a three-day holiday, which is regrettable.

On Monday, May 30, we will remember the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice to defend our liberties. I hope you will take a moment to give thanks to them on Memorial Day 2022. We should also say “Thank you” to those who are no longer with us, the men and women who have served this great nation and were laid to rest under its flag.

On Marco Island, veterans and volunteers will adorn Collier Boulevard with small American flags that will help many people recall the significance of this special day. Unfortunately, some will only be rushing to get to the beach, golf courses and shopping.

I think we began to lose our perspective on what Memorial Day means when we began to think about it as the beginning of summer. In my opinion, we lost our focus on this special day’s importance through its commercialization, which resulted in Memorial Day being thought of by some as a time for sales on gas grills, outdoor furniture, and mattresses, forgetting its original purpose.

During my business travels, I had the opportunity to visit several of the American military cemeteries around the world. There are many, and it is a moving experience to witness the solemn white crosses perfectly kept as a reminder of the sacrifices made for the liberties we enjoy today. Whether it was at Normandy, Manila or at Carthage in Tunisia, a visit there will stir the emotions of even the most hardened man or woman.

Today, we have approximately 1.3 million active-duty personnel serving our nation. Another 880,000 men and women serve in Reserve and National Guard units across the United States. Many of these brave individuals have given their lives or suffered terrible wounds in the War Against Terror, which began on 9-11-2001 and continues today.