On Memorial Day, we are told to never forget. To never lose sight of who came before us, fought for us, and sometimes died for us, so that we may enjoy the life and liberties that citizens of the United States of America have come to enjoy for centuries now.

And while some traditions fall from sight after repetitive observance, the oath to remember and honor the deceased Veterans who served in the United States Military on Memorial Day has not lost its meaning with the residents of Sullivan County. In fact, the promise to uphold the lives of those who served remains at its peak, because when it hits so close to home, it will never lose its potency.

That is just one thing we observed as we attended over a half-dozen of Memorial Day services in and around the county. It was no secret that spectators and attendees of the various ceremonies still hold their loved ones deep within their hearts – a kind of missing that will never be filled.

But even so, what a beautiful sight it was on Monday and the few days leading up to witness such a deep connection between so many people, many who have dealt with the loss of a brother, sister, friend, ally, comrade-in-arms, and so many other titles that just fit right, as that is what they are and continue to be in the hearts of those who remember. 

Thank you to every single person who attended the ceremonies, watched and participated in the parades, planted flags in the graveyards, stood tall in a salute and spent the time to be silent and remember. It is the truest form of the American spirit to stand so close with one another in this silent hurt, all placing our hearts on the stands built by the Veterans, and Veterans alone.

As we all step forward into the summer with the Fourth of July, followed by Veteran’s Day in the fall, we have faith that the spirit shown in full colors this past weekend will not fade from this Earth anytime soon.