When I think of posting on Memorial Day, I’m always inclined to reflect on those I’ve known in my own lifetime who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice on my behalf and that of my family. I can see their faces but I can no longer hear their voices. It’s the same for my first responder friends who’ve fallen right here at home. So if for no other reason, I believe we mustn’t forget their selfless embrace of the God given freedom we acknowledge in the Declaration, and which sets us apart from the rest of the world. However this year, I’m coming at my tribute to the brave men and women who’ve fought and died in our stead from somewhat of a different angle. 

In short, how can we look at these teen mobs blocking traffic and taking over malls across the country with brutal violence and criminal mischief and think we are deserving of a brave war fighters life?

How can we look at the abortion rates in America and claim the moral high ground of the “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” they died to defend?

How do we hold on to those tenets embraced by the Founders which serve as our road map in times of national angst, and which are at the root of our brave military’s unwavering commitment to this republic and everything it stands for?

And how would we explain to those heroes who left their blood in the woods of Belleau-Wood, on the beaches of Normandy, the sands of Iwo Jima, the frozen landscapes of Korea, the jungles of Vietnam, and the deserts of the Middle East, that many of todays youth likely couldn’t name a single battle they died in? 

No my friends, this year is different for me. We are failing as a nation to honor history and learn from it. 250 years down the road, I’m asking myself, would they do it today? Would they sacrifice everything for America 250? 

Now I know some might take offense to this. They will say it’s the concepts of liberty and freedom they take the oath to defend. But I would say, that ignoring the obvious cancer(s) eating away the pillars of a society which, despite what the leftists would have you believe, has done more good for mankind than any in human history, is a recipe for disaster.

So on this Memorial Day 2026, I think it’s a fair question. Would they fight and die for us today??? Truth be told, enlistment rates are at their highest levels ever. Maybe we’re seeing a resurgence in patriotism and love of country. Or maybe I just need to have a little more faith.

Notwithstanding my frustration with all of the selfishness and ignorance we see on the 24 hour news networks today, there will never be a day in my life when I will not bend a knee and thank almighty God, for all those who’ve secured my 62 years living in the greatest country the world has ever known. I suppose, what we do with what they’ve passed on to us, will remain an open question at 250 and beyond. 

Be safe, God Bless you all, and God Bless the United States of America.