Remember veterans’ sacrifices every day

I am a soldier currently stationed at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan. Having grown up in Libertyville and Mundelein, I wanted to take a moment to share a soldier’s thoughts on Memorial Day.

Walking to my place of work, someone stopped me and said cheerfully, “Happy Memorial Day!” The chasm that separates the average person and the veteran is vast and growing.

Today is a day of respecting sacrifice. That of the soldier violently ripped from this world and that of his family growing up without a father/husband/son. In a conflict where great effort has been made to insulate the populace from the monetary and human cost of this war, please take a moment to remember those whose ultimate sacrifice demands our honor on Memorial Day and every day.

Maj. Erik Archer

Libertyville