Memorial Day is more than the sales, the unofficial kickoff of summer, and picnics that take place during a three-day-weekend. It is a day of remembrance and of honoring all of the service men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms and in some cases the freedoms of people who didn't yet know what freedom is.

When giving a speech at Arlington Cemetery, President Ronald Reagan captured the true essence of Memorial Day, "It’s a day of thanks for the valor of others, a day to remember the splendor of America and those of her children who rest in this cemetery and others. It’s a day to be with the family and remember."

In my small town in New Jersey, every year we set out rows of flags and crosses to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It is something I participated in every year as a Girl Scout and in high school with my brother, accompanying his Boy Scout troop. Reflecting on this, what I notice is that people have always come out of the woodwork to volunteer and no one complains no matter how hot or how early it is.

At the service we have in our park, listening to the different speeches made and hearing a veteran sing "My Buddy," I find myself fighting back tears. Our Assemblyman, Thomas Deverin, used to comment how the crowds have shrunk over the years but the emotions have only grown with those in attendance.

Waving my flag while watching the parade and hearing the various bands play patriotic music, I am only reminded of how much I love my country and how grateful I am to live in America.

Remember to honor the many generations of brave men and women who have died defending our great nation.