Memorial Day may be the holiday kick-off to summer, but it’s worth remembering what it's really all about: acknowledging those who have fought and died for our country. While preparing the barbecue and spreading on the sunscreen, take a pause to reflect on the meaningful sacrifice of the hundreds of thousands of American troops who’ve died in battle. Freedom is a gift, it’s a treasure. And though we all may agree on that truth, it’s often easy to take for granted the greatest gifts that God has given us in our lives. But those most precious gifts are never free. They came with a price. With sacrifice. They were worth fighting for. And are still worth fighting for today. Many brave men and women were willing to face hard battles in order for us to enjoy that gift of freedom today. For all those who have protected our nation, for the men and women in uniform, together, we say “Thank You.” We take time to remember today and say a prayer of gratefulness for the many who have been willing to pay a great price for our freedom. May God help us to live so courageously, may we follow the brave examples of those who have gone before us… Thank you, Lord, for reminding us that there’s incredible love and sacrifice displayed when one is willing to stand strong and fight for freedom. This service of love and sacrifice on behalf of all people, points us directly to the greatest love of all, the very gift and sacrifice of Christ. Our Savior was willing to pay the ultimate price, so that we can live free. Forever. Peter Anello Adjutant/Chaplain Post 129