We’ve had a beautiful weekend in Columbus, with sunny, clear weather and a traditional cookout yesterday. With the arrival of Memorial Day, though, it’s time to take a step back and think for a while about the reason for this three-day weekend, and the men and women whose sacrifices in the service of their country helped to safeguard the many freedoms that we enjoy.
When I was a kid, Grandma and Grandpa Neal took UJ and me on a trip to Washington, D.C. We visited Arlington National Cemetery, with its long, quiet rows of white crosses, and the Iwo Jima Memorial and its depiction of the stirring photograph of a flag-raising effort on Mount Suribachi during one of the bloodiest battles in World War II. Those visits made a tremendous impression on me, and on days like Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Veterans Day I turn back to those awed, hushed memories and reflect on how many have served, and how well.
The inscription at the base of the Iwo Jima Memorial reads: “Uncommon valor was a common virtue.” It’s a fitting point of reference on this Memorial Day.
A grateful thank you to those who served, and those who serve still. Happy Memorial Day!
Webner House 