Memorial Day in my book is not just another day off for backyard barbecuing. In my opinion, Memorial Day is a time to remember all those who gave their lives to protect the freedoms we enjoy.
This Memorial Day, I find myself thinking what it means to be an American. The answer is crystal clear, and that is the pride to live in a county that allows us our personal freedom to express ourselves and speak our minds. These freedoms come with great personal sacrifice for those who leave family, friends and jobs to serve the greater good.
I myself served during the Vietnam era. Although I never saw combat, I had friends who did and who died serving their country. So please honor Memorial Day by honoring those who gave their lives for what we all hold most dear. You can do this by attending parades in your local communities and saluting those who served our country so well. I also ask you to display the flag of our country at your homes and businesses. You can also call those veterans you know and tell them thanks for serving and keeping us free from tyranny.
Frederick R. Bedell Jr.
Glen Oaks Village
