As we observe Memorial Day each year, it’s imperative to reflect upon the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have given their lives in service of our country. While some Americans see Memorial Day as a three-day weekend spent camping, barbecuing, and going outside, we all need to remember the importance of this holiday. Memorial Day is to honor and extend gratitude to the men and women who died serving our country.

Every Memorial Day, I’m reminded of a verse from the Bible, John 15:13, which reads: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Indeed, the brave men and women we honor on this important holiday paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, and for that, we are all forever grateful.

So many of our neighbors in District One either are a member of the armed forces or have a family member or friend in the military. Some of these neighbors have loved ones that made the ultimate sacrifice for our country or have lost friends during their service. Memorial Day is the perfect time to say an extra prayer for those around us that might be struggling during this time.

Around 1.4 million members of our military have died since the Civil War.  That number is just slightly less than our state’s population. These soldiers were our sons, our daughters, our husbands or wives, grandparents, parents, and our friends. These soldiers were members of our communities and are missed. The grief that comes with this loss will never be forgotten. 

Memorial Day weekend is a time that many of us spend with friends and family, hosting barbeques and visiting cemeteries. We cannot forget the true meaning of this special day and may we never forget the freedoms we enjoy because of those soldiers who have died fighting for their country. There are many ways that we can honor the lost, from local events hosted across District 1 to a simple moment of prayer. The brave men and women that we recognize annually on Memorial Day are ultimate heroes, and I pray for their families and friends that they may find comfort knowing their loved one’s passing is a result of the utmost act of selflessness.  

As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln NE 68509-4604; telephone: 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.