Memorial Day

I was going to post a poem by Dylan Thomas or Robert Frost, but I thought the better of it because the dead at least rest. The living who knew them and the living torn up are the ones who pay now and the ones I pray for. So, I found an address by the Air Force Chief of Staff, General Moseley. I know it's addressed to Airmen, but up it goes. after all, my view is that of an Airman, but we can all appreciate General Moseley's thoughts from this Memorial Day address.

"To the men and women of the United States Air Force:

In a time of peace and prosperity, we remember those who gave their lives in service to our country. In a time of war, these memories are sharpened by the selfless service of those defending our freedoms daily.

This Memorial Day, we pause to honor our fallen Airmen -- active, Guard, Reserve and civilian -- who answered the call and paid the ultimate price for our country. Remember also the Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, patriots all, who displayed the resolute courage that has defined our country through the generations.

We also remember the families of those who served so well but did not come home. We hope that these families draw strength from the fact that their loved ones served a calling greater than their own self-interest. Likewise, we come together today to stand with the families of those who continue to serve, as their unconditional support is our true source of strength.

We remain a nation at war, and an Air Force committed to upholding the charge presented in the Constitution to 'provide for the common defense.' This Memorial Day, we affirm our gratitude for those who fought and made the ultimate sacrifice so that others could live and enjoy freedom in abundance. We will never disappoint their legacy of service before self."

Amen. Today was not about barbeque. To those of of you who did, though, I sincerely hope that you enjoyed yourselves. Had I not been on duty, I would have included such a great American tradition in my observances. I do ask you all, though, to remember what this is about, and to remember that we are at war and will be at war for a long time to come. When we stand in our yards at the grill or sit in our living rooms by the T.V. (for those of you who are into that sort of thing), you will probably not feel that others are fighting for you. Remember them, remember what they have done. Not to make you feel guilty or small, not to ellicit any charity from you, but to be sure... damn sure... that you know that your way of life is not in any way guaranteed. It is not defined by any right that you have, it is not secured by the fact that you have it now and want it to continue. It has been earned in the past and is secured today by people like General Moseley described.

To anyone who attended any of the many ceremonies today, I thank you. I love it when civilians come to experience just about any military observance. Please come again!

No one and nothing forgotten.