Memorial Day is very mis-represented

Lets remember to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation. 

I had the opportunity to speak to a veteran that I work with and one of the things he said that really stuck with me was that “I feel so ignored on Memorial Day because everyone sees that as the start of the summer, as the end of the school-year, as the beginning to their summer fun. No one ever considers that many soldiers, marines, and other respected men including police men, etc. are not having a summer right now due to mental health problems, post-traumatic stress disorder, worries, nightmares that destroy their lives, financial difficulties, homelessness, and other terrible circumstances. It’s such a disservice to our men and women who have risked their lives for us to barbecue, hit beach balls, and go to parks for our own selfish needs. It’s okay to celebrate your family and the time you enjoy spending with each other, but lets not forget that our freedom cost a price.