The last Monday of May is often valued because it creates a three-day weekend and the official start of summer. The real meaning of Memorial Day goes way beyond backyard barbecues and long weekends.

Our country began honoring the men and women who died in military service after the Civil War. At the time, it was called Decoration Day and flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate Soldiers.

On May 25th this year, I encourage you and your family to take a moment of silence for those who have given their lives for this great nation. Reflect on the courage it took for those brave individuals to go into battle knowing they may never see their families again.

I hope these quotes inspire you to remember the virtues that make America Beautiful every day…not just the last Monday in May.

“A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” -Joseph Campbell

“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.” -Elmer Davis

“The legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example.” -Benjamin Disraeli

“It doesn’t take a hero to order men into battle. It takes a hero to be one of those men who goes into battle.” -H. Norman Schwarzkopf

“Ceremonies are important. But our gratitude has to be more than visits to the troops, and once-a-year Memorial Day ceremonies. We honor the dead best by treating the living well.” -Jennifer M. Granholm

“Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. There is no reason not to follow your heart.” -Steve Jobs

“Each man is a hero and an oracle to somebody.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear–not absence of fear.” -Mark Twain

God Bless America!

Let’s Get Better. Together! Bill Durkin