While June 21 marks the first day of summer, Memorial Day has long been the holiday more eagerly associated with the start of the season. That idea is pervasive and at times seemingly detrimental to the real purpose of the observance, which is to honor the memory of America’s fighting men and women who died defending our nation.

Memorial Day is the time to recount the sacrifice of all of America’s warriors. But this year the nation will focus attention on those of the “greatest generation,” the veterans of World War II. This Memorial Day weekend, in Washington, D.C., a memorial to the men and women of that war will be dedicated. Not all veterans who served our nation then will be able to attend the event, and so it falls to the communities of America to see that World War II veterans are remembered and acknowledged, personally and publicly.

It is fitting that we should in our time thank God for those World War II veterans who “served in the field,” asking peace for those souls offered up and blessing on those who yet walk among us.

Ray Berard, commander, American Legion Post No. 72, South Paris

Copy the Story Link