Memorial Day has always been the holiday where summer officially begins for most American students and their families. For a service member, it is a day to remember why they serve the country, and to remember the importance of giving back just like the many servicemen and servicewomen have done before them. Memorial Day is not only to reflect back on the sacrifices, but to remember those lost lives, whether returned home or missing, that did the most sacrificing any American could do.

On Memorial Day, we should not forget who we are and how our heritage, enriched with the colors of the flag, first came about. On Memorial Day, thank a service member, remember the sacrifices they've made, and wish their families well.

On Memorial Day, talk about what freedom means to you. Freedom to me means the ability to wake up everyday knowing today is going to be fine, and I am still living a happy, healthy life. Freedom means to do what I want, dream what I want, and feel what I want without being punished. Everyone has their own perception of what freedom is. Show yours on Memorial Day.

On Memorial Day, don't celebrathe because it's a holiday, celebrate because it is a day of reflection on the sacrifices many strong, brave men and women have done to keep the country safe and sound. Remember the reason as to why the American flag still waves in the wind, and has survived battle after battle. Don't thank a service member just to thank them, thank them because they've done a sacrifice that is a true honor to have in the United States of America.

On Memorial Day, participate in activities that explore the history of our great country. Don't be afraid to look and admire the hard work many have done to keep us safe. When you look and revisit old memories of past battles, such as the Battle of Gettysburg, the Civil War, and the most recent war against terrorism, think of how long and hard each casualty had to sacrifice to keep the land we walk on safe. For the Battle of Gettysburg, fifty-one thousand soldiers were either missing, injured or killed. This battle was a victory for the Union, which stopped Confederate General Robert E. Lee from attempting a second invasion on the North, which could've meant a succession for the Confederate's.This battle lasted for three straight days, July 1-3, 1863, and goes down as the bloodiest battle in United States of America's history.

To commemorate such a day as Memorial Day, be sure to thank those who are currently in uniform, whether they plan to stay in or retire soon. I've been blessed to meet many brave men and women in uniform, and have a rich history of family who've fought in World War I and II, and still serve today. I am not going to reveal names, as I'd like to protect the identities of these people. When it comes to a day like this, it is important to remember the sacrifices each and every soldier, marine, sailor, airman, coast and national guard member, and Navy SEAL have done. To count how many have sacrificed, it would take a very long time as there over thousands that have sacrificed themselves for this country.

On Monday, when the sun rises, and you see the flag, remember the ones that have died to keep that flag moving, because every sacrifice made is another glorious breeze to keep the flag moving.