Memorial Day. The older I get the more important that day is to me.

It is not all the John Wayne war movies, the great barbecue and fish cookouts that everyone has. Nor is it getting together with all the friends.

It is taking that day to be thankful to all the men and women that have and are serving our country. Yes, take the time and thank that person that has put it all on the line for our freedom.

We live in the greatest country in the world and we have the freedom to speak our minds, to do the work we enjoy because of freedom, and it is not free. Our soldiers are willing to give up their lives to keep us free.

Please do me a favor. The next time you speak to a veteran, tell them THANK YOU FOR THEIR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY.

If you’re in a restaurant and see a soldier in uniform buy his/her meal. I have done this and had the feeling — it is awesome.

Thank you.