But To God. . .

(But To God. . .)

Could the "real" Memorial Day please stand ? A few weeks ago, there was some confusion on the dates and such was indicated at the time. In any event, today is recognized as Memorial Day and while it is appropriate to get beer and BBQ, the occasional swim. But it is no accident that the day is called "Memorial."

How easy it is for some to just see this as a three day weekend ? The beer, the BBQ, the swim and that is the extent of their participation. How easy it is to forget the sacrifice. That that beer, BBQ, and swim has actually been bought and paid for by the blood of others, the real reason for Memorial Day. Which begs the question, why would there be a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier ?

The Tomb lies as a part of Arlington National Cemetary across the Potomac in Virginia. The internment contains the remains of Fallen "Known But to God." Normally a Headstone is available but the "unknown" cannot receive that acclaim, the individual who has to rely on the recognition of others. Like President Biden laying the Wreath at the Unknown's Tomb.

To be sure, Memorial Day is for all those who answered a Call to the Colors and all those who have given that Last Full Measure, But, for all their perhaps "stilled" voices, the "Ones Known but to God," speak the loudest. Memorial Day, for their sakes above others, so one can have that beer or BBQ and even that swim.

Freedom has never been free. If that is still basis for American life then Holidays like Memorial Day remain central. Memorial Day remembers the rest of us, for the best, of us.