Memorial Day Remembrance

A letter published in local Queens weekly newspapers by Fred Bedell

Memorial Day is fast approaching, and I hope the many will not forget the importance of this day. Brave men and women have fought and died in many wars to keep freedom alive. These wars started with the Revolutionary War and extended to the war of 1812, the Civil War, the Spanish American War, WWI, WWII, Korean War, the Vietnam War, and finally Iraq and Afghanistan. And finally the war against Terrorism that continues and asks all of us that if we see something we must say something.

Now Memorial Day in my book is not just another day off to shop for sales or barbecuing. Memorial Day is a time to remember all those who gave their lives to protect the freedoms we enjoy today. This Memorial Day, I find myself thinking what it means to be an American. The answer is crystal clear, and that is the pride to live in a country that allows us the personal freedom to speak our minds. These freedoms come with great personal sacrifice for those who leave family, friends and jobs to serve the greater good.

I myself have served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era. Although I never saw combat, I had friends who did and died serving our country. So, please honor Memorial Day and honor those who gave their lives for all those things we hold most dear. You do this by flying the American flag from homes and offices. You can also do this by attending the many Memorial Day parades in your local communities and saluting those who serve our nation so well. Let’s not forget those who serve on the home front like policemen, fire fighters and EMS workers who serve us so well. You can also call a veteran you know and tell them thank you for serving and keeping us free from tyranny.

Remember this too: Our flag is red, white, and blue and these colors don’t run!

Frederick R. Bedell Jr.
Glen Oaks Village, N.Y.