Memorial Day 2013 – by Suzanne Burr Monaco, Trumbull

Almost every Memorial Day for as long as I can remember, I have watched a celebration of sorts — a parade. Flags flying from electric poles dot Main Street. Veterans too old to walk ride in cars, and younger men walk the two-mile route in our town. (My dad walked it through his 88th year!) Schools, teams, leagues, various associations all march in honor of those lost and the freedoms we received through them.

Coming from a family with military pride — my dad, uncles, cousins and brother served — I hope parents take the time to explain the true meaning of the day, the courage of the men and women, and their impact on our country and freedoms. A veterans group sent something to our house with this wonderful quote from Gen. George Patton: “Let me not mourn for the men who have died fighting, but rather let me be glad that such heroes have lived.”

The men still with us are heroes also. Our wounded warriors need our help and support. They have scars, both physical and mental. All war is hell, and they have lived through it and prevailed. Let us always remember and thank God for the strength, courage and honor of our fighting men in the past and in the present. The Veterans Administration is always seeking volunteers to help wheel a patient, read to someone, etc. You will understand the meaning of true sacrifice if you go there. Call 203-937-3814 and ask if you can help. You will be rewarded more than you ever know.  So, in closing, I personally thank any of the veterans that I know, or don’t know, and my dad, who at 95½ years is a patriotic, proud veteran of Omaha Beach on D-Day. Thank you for preserving our freedoms. God bless you all!