Letter: A time to remember so we don't repeat the past

As I sit to write my Memorial Day speech, I shudder at the thought that we find our world teetering on the edge of a Third World War. And yet it causes me to remember what Memorial Day means to Americans.

And yes, I remember all those countries that our brave men and women in the military rose to the challenge to help defend their liberty.

But the true meaning of Memorial Day goes far beyond having time off work for barbecues and having fun. It is a somber day of remembrance.

The men and women of our military forces came from all walks of life and most of them were just ordinary citizens who did something extraordinary. Millions of them died defending our freedom and our way of life. They paid the ultimate sacrifice with their life. And although we mourn for them, we stand proudly and salute each one of them. Without their sacrifice, we might be speaking a different language. We might not have a Memorial Day.

And now another country is trying to force their will upon its neighbor. However, this time will be different. The world learned a difficult lesson that war is not the solution. All that war does, for both sides, is to bring more death and destruction.

So today the leaders from countries all over the world are banding together to share responsibility to defend the freedom of each sovereign nation. Those that threaten world peace will ultimately be defeated.

All the countries of the world do not want to celebrate a new Memorial Day. We must believe they all have learned from the past.

So, on this Memorial Day, as we reflect on our fallen heroes that raised their hands and swore to defend our country and the freedom we enjoy today we say

"Thank you for a job well done, now rest in peace!"

God bless all of you and God bless America.

Mike Formento, Commander

Glen Ellyn American Legion, Post 3