“Nights are long since you went away
I think about you all through the day
My buddy, my buddy
Nobody quite so true”
On this Memorial Day, let us think about them, those buddies that gave the definitive life expenditure for our freedom, liberty and democracy. Wars are fought by people just like us. Nobody truly wants to end up in the killing fields, but by hook or crook they do. And most are repulsed by the initial taking of life that brutal conflicts force upon those that must fight. It is the combination of obligation, fear and duty that takes over and justifies, without equivocation, the orders so personally and profoundly sworn to in oath and allegiance to our country.
“I do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic …”
On this day we memorialize our war dead with flags, ceremonies and verse. There is the personal anguish for those that lost a warrior, a loved one or buddy in battle. Memories are inspired to recall our time with those that died in the distant trenches, on the fields, in the air and at sea. We remember the glory of their being and the common touch of their soul entwined with our daily life at home. The magnificence of their existence can bring splendor to our hearts as we venerate these American men and women this Memorial Day.
Take time over the holiday to talk with a veteran. The older ones seem to have almost angelic voices, filled with grace, respectful erudition and warm personal memories of buddies so true. They may share with you the elegance of the human heart as it touches another being. Oh, how they yearn to keep those memories alive.
Do not forget our younger generations when it comes to war. They too have much to communicate, with messages telling of their service to our country. Their words reflect wise, sincere and noble experience when one is privileged to listen to their tales. You can feel the edginess of their military involvement ballast with passion, grit and a truly grateful intrinsic nature to be home.
So, when you see our stars and stripes flying in the wind today, pause for a moment, listen to your core and give up your personal entreaty for those who have fallen, those who have gone to be with our God almighty in that quiet place of harmony, joy and amity that they so honorably deserve. It is for us that they gave so much and from us that we wish them peace.
We justly honor, admire and revere all our military, and that includes the wives, husbands, children, moms and dads at home, too. They are heroes as well, holding the military family together while all the unknowns of life and death are habitually registering. Who among us is willing to give what they do day in and day out without reservation?
For those who served and are at home this Memorial Day, and our fighting women and men cast out around the world protecting American principles, we are everlastingly grateful. You have our indebted admiration, appreciation and praise. But more specifically this Memorial Day, may our departed fighting kinsmen find everlasting peace, concord and armistice as they rest. Might the joys of their lives be forever emulated in the days of our lives. Sabers up, lads!
“I miss your voice and the touch of your hand
I long to know that you understand
My buddy, my buddy, your buddy misses you.”
