W. Howard Coop, 32°

Memorial Day reminds us of a debt we can never repay.

Most Americans observe Memorial Day, now designated as the fourth Monday of May, in one way or another. While some individuals see only an extra three-day weekend, the vast majority of citizens are more perceptive. They recognize that the purpose of the observance is noble and has remained unchanged through the years.
Since it began in 1868, Mem-orial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, has been set aside to honor the memory of those patriots who served their country in time of need, some of whom gave the full measure of devotion. From Bunker Hill in 1775 to Baghdad in 2004 and on numerous occasions between those significant places and dates, men and women have answered when the call came to serve their country. As true patriots always do, they made personal sacrifices involving themselves and their families. Their courageous efforts protected our land and preserved the freedom we cherish, even the freedom to protest. Because of the heroic service they rendered during times of peace or crisis, our country is stronger today and our freedom is more secure.
Lest we forget, those flags waving in the spring breeze in the cemeteries on Memorial Day are silent reminders of the cost of the freedom which we too often take for granted. The flags mark the resting places of a host of courageous men and women who served their country faithfully. To them, we owe a debt that can never be repaid.

W. Howard Coop, Valley of Louisville, Kentucky, is a retired United Methodist Minister and has been a Mason since 1952. Contacts: 111 Dogwood Drive, Lancaster, KY 40444-1034; hkcoop@aol.com