Letter: Honoring those who defended freedom

When I think of Memorial Day, I think of the thousands of young people who gave their lives storming the beaches of Normandy to defend our freedom.

It is my observation that there is a large fraction of our population that prefers an authoritarian government ruled by a person acting like a king.

We cannot let that happen. Too many people have died defending our freedom and way of life.

Art Struss

Libertyville

The reason we pause

As the daughter of a Korean war veteran, I hold a special place in my heart for the parents, siblings, spouses and friends of those who served. I can't help but think of all the men and women who have gone to fight for this great nation and didn't return home.

While we are all guilty of celebrating the unofficial start of summer and encouraging each other to "have a good weekend," it is important to remember the reason for the holiday: Memorial Day is the day Americans set aside to honor those brave men and women who met tragic ends while defending our freedom. It is our duty to honor their sacrifices, to pray for their families and to bow our heads in recognition of their service.

Brenda Fruhuaf, President

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 1983

Schaumburg