Once again the nation pauses to memorialize the fallen who served this country so valiantly in times of crisis. Soldiers, sailors, members of the Air Force and Marines, as well as medical personnel, combat engineers, military chaplains and so many others, cut down in the prime of life — each of them a tribute to the most cherished beliefs and values of this great nation.
We honor them because they, as the song “America the Beautiful” reminds us, “more than self their country loved, and mercy more than life.” They knew the risks, yet they served, and they purchased for us with their own blood the peace and liberty we enjoy today. How could we ever forget?
There have been more than a million of them in the 236 years since the American Revolution. Men and boys, young women and dedicated volunteers of every race, class and background who gave, in Lincoln’s words, “the last full measure of devotion.” These are the Americans we remember this Memorial Day.
No one looking out upon the rows of crosses and stars of David at U.S. military cemeteries can help but be moved. They were our fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, childhood friends, relatives and neighbors.
No letter of condolence, no tribute, no ceremonial flag, no mere medal or symbol of our esteem can ever make up for what we’ve lost. Yes, all of those things do help to make the grief a little less intense. But our consolation is knowing that they died serving a greater cause — freedom.
Ever since the events of Sept. 11, 2001, we have increasingly become aware of new threats to our way of life. Shameless fanatics who despise our peace and prosperity lie awake plotting how to destroy us. In response, another generation of American patriots has come forward to silence the enemies of freedom at home and abroad.
The brilliant assault on Osama bin Laden’s secret compound in Pakistan last year was a reminder of the perils of war. But more than that, it was a bold statement to the rest of the world that we, the American people, do not take our liberty lightly. Tyrants who murder innocent civilians will pay a price, even if it takes a decade to settle the score.
American history reminds us time and again of the importance of our great heritage of freedom. It’s no surprise that nations around the globe have attempted to emulate our form of government, but it’s also no accident that we have fielded the most fearsome military on earth. What we have is rare and precious, and American patriots will always be called upon when the nation is threatened.
For most of our history, America has been a beacon to the world. Sustained by the belief that Providence has prospered us for a purpose, this nation has been a benefactor to the world.
We’re surrounded by many new threats today, but even as we struggle to defend our homeland and right the ship of state, we have the assurance that American patriots and heroes will be standing their ground at home and abroad.
The Rev. Richard G. Lee is founding pastor of First Redeemer Church in Cumming and author of “God’s Promises for the American Patriot” and other books.
About the Author
