Remember our heroes - Memorial Day Message from ISRA

Published: Mon, 05/27/19

Letterhead

Memorial Day Message from ISRA

Remember our heroes but also remembered what they fought for
By Richard Pearson
Executive Director
Illinois State Rifle Association

 

Memorial Day is about remembrance just as the name suggests. It is a day to remember and to honor America’s fallen heroes who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service of their country and to express our gratitude for the price they paid for our freedom.

The Holiday has its origins in the years following the Civil War, which is still America’s bloodiest war. Illinois’ own General John A. Logan spearheaded an effort to honor those who died in battle. He called it “Decoration Day,” which was first observed on May 30, 1868 because that date did not coincide with any major battle during the Civil War. Eventually Decoration Day became “Memorial Day.”

Over time, we have added traditions to Memorial Day and one such modern observance is the moment of silence. At 3 pm local time wherever people are, there is a national moment of silence for one minute for all who have fallen in defense of our country. If you can’t make a Memorial Day service, please at the very least take moment at 3 pm on Monday to reflect on the sacrifices so many have made to protect our liberty and freedom.

And also remember what it is these brave souls died protecting. They died to preserve and protect our Constitution, which sadly is under assault every single day. Memorial Day is a reminder of the cost of our freedom, but it is also a reminder that the principles of liberty and freedom upon which our country was founded are worth protecting. Our heroes died to protect these liberties. The least we can do is take a stand to ensure we do not do to our own Constitution and our way of life what no foreign enemy has been able to do.

Remember our heroes and as importantly remember what it is they died fighting to protect.