Once again, I woke up really early on Saturday morning and, on a whim, decided to try to get to the Saratoga National Cemetery for some photos that I wanted to include in this Memorial Day post, foolishly thinking I might beat the crowds. It was a spectacularly beautiful morning and I enjoyed the peaceful ride…lots of horses, lots of farms, lots of sunshine. It felt like the world was still asleep, although it was close to 8:00 a.m…
…that is, until I came around the final curve. Cars and motorcycles not only filled the cemetery, but lined both sides of the road leading to the entrance. It was the Annual Flag Decoration Ceremony. Hundreds of people had come for the presentation, and to pay their respects to loved ones who have served our country.
The pride and love were evident on the faces of every individual present.
Volunteers got busy placing the 10,000 American flags on every Veteran grave.
I wandered through the crowds, chatting with people along the way, and listening to their stories about parents, siblings and friends who had served. Each story was touching in its own special way.
It is so easy to forget what Memorial Day is actually about as we are enjoying parties and picnics, or relaxing by the side of the pool…but it is so much more than just a three-day weekend to start off the summer.
Today is a day of remembrance for everyone who has died serving in the American Armed Forces.
Today we honor our fallen Heroes.
Thank you to those who have served and to those who continue to risk their lives to protect our freedom.
Happy Memorial Day.
