The Veterans Administration reports that approximately 430 World War II veterans die every day. Out of the 16 million veterans who served in World War II, approximately 697,000 were still living as of the beginning of this year.
As we prepare to celebrate another Memorial Day, it is a reminder for all of us to pause and be grateful for those who gave their lives in that great battle for freedom. The dwindling number of surviving World War II veterans is a reminder that we must never forget their sacrifices and we must make sure that future generations always remember what Tom Brokaw called “The Greatest Generation.”
Would that this Memorial Day were simply a time to remember the fallen veterans of past generations! Unfortunately, however, it is also a time to remember those who have recently died. Sadly, because war and terror rage on in our world, men and women who serve our country are continuing to give their lives today. For them, too, we offer gratitude for their bravery and service.
God did not intend there to be war. In truth, it would be ideal if we lived in a world where we did not need a military. We can blame Original Sin for that. Therefore, let us pause this Memorial Day, put aside our politics, and offer prayers for those who have given their lives in service for our country, and let us continue to pray for the protection of those who serve this great nation.
