Remember the service of all who keep us safe

I’d like to share an interview with the great actor Joe Mantegna about Memorial Day that I read.

It was about 15 years ago, and he was asked if hosting The National Memorial Day Concert in Washington, D.C., has gotten to become old or tiresome.

His reply was, “No, it gets better and better each year, and because of this day, we, (in America) wouldn’t have any other holidays.”

Powerful, and thought provoking.

Too many of us have long forgotten the price that was paid for this holiday.

We look at it as a long weekend, cookouts, etc.

Traditionally, we pay respects to those who gave up their hopes and dreams and their tomorrows for our freedom and enjoyment we’re able to take for granted today.

But let’s not forget, not everyone who had been in uniform (be it military, police, firefighters, nurses, doctors or EMTs) died from combat. Others in these uniforms died from accidents, COVID, cancer, suicide and general on-the-job hazards that are unexpected.

So I’ll leave you with this thought.

Every day is Memorial Day for these families; it’s not just the last Monday in May.

The next time you see a first responder or firefighter or a police officer, give them the same courtesy you’ve shown those who are in the military. Tell them, “Thank you for your service and for keeping us safe!”

David Kumpula

Hoffman Estates