MEMORIAL DAY

The Real Meaning of Memorial Day

I'd like to share an except from a letter written by a fallen soldier's mother. This was first shared by ABC News in 2005. Georgette Frank's son Lance Cpl. Philip Frank, 20, was killed in Fallujah by sniper fire on April 8, 2004. She wrote this essay on the real meaning of Memorial Day.

"Dear Friends,

In the past I would look forward to Memorial Day. It represented the beginning of the summer season at the Jersey Shore and a three-day weekend.

Then we lost our Phil in Iraq.

Memorial Day has now become a day of reflection and remembrance. It is a day to remember all of our Fallen Heroes from all of the wars. It is a day to think about the families that will forever grieve for their lost loved ones. It is a day to be thankful to those who have served and made the ultimate sacrifice. They fought and died to win the freedom and democracy that we Americans cherish so dearly. They also fought and died to bring that same freedom and democracy to the people of other countries as well. As the family of a Fallen Hero, we are so proud of our loved ones who knowingly put themselves in harm's way so they could make a difference in the lives of others...."

As you gather and celebrate with family and friends, please remember our soldiers and their families. Have a safe and memorable weekend.