Memorial Day has always been more than a long weekend to me.

Years ago, while serving as a military police officer in Germany, I was called to supervise a scene after a young soldier took his own life. He had hanged himself from his locker.

There are some things you never forget.

Today, as people gather with family, wave flags, and enjoy freedom, I find myself remembering not only those who died in combat, but also the silent battles some carried inside themselves.

Service leaves marks that are not always visible.

So today, I pause for all of them.

The fallen.
The forgotten.
The struggling.
The ones who never made it home in body or in spirit.

Honor them.
Remember them.
Speak their names.

Memorial Day 2026 🇺🇸