Sen. Jennings: “…Take a Moment to Honor Those Who Have Lost Their Lives While Defending Our Freedoms”

From Sen. J.B. Jennings:

Memorial Day Weekend

Tomorrow begins the Memorial Day weekend. For many Marylanders it will be a 3 day weekend spent catchingup on household chores, landscaping around the yard, going to the pool, or cooking out with family and friends. For other Marylanders, it signals the unofficial summer season kick off with their pilgrimages to Ocean City. But few will take the time to remember or reflect on what the Memorial Day holiday truly symbolizes.

Did you know that Memorial Day, held on the final Monday in May, was originally called Decoration Day? It was a day to commemorate both the Union and Confederate troops that died in the Civil War. By the early part of the 20th century it was extended to honor all Americans who died in military service in all conflicts.

We are now in the 11th year of the war in Afghanistan. Our families and friends are still being deployed to serve overseas. Many of these men and women have served multiple tours. They leave behind their loved ones, jobs and lives without hesitation to serve their country. In fact, the husband of a dear friend of mine received orders just this week for a 13 month deployment. This is his second deployment, the first lasting 18 months. The war has been going on for so long that some have become immune to the casualty reports on the evening news. These brave men and women place their lives in danger daily to defend the freedoms, we as Americans enjoy. Unfortunately, some will make the ultimate sacrifice by proudly offering their lives to guarantee those freedoms.

So, this weekend as you are flipping burgers on the grill or stuck in traffic coming home from the beach, I ask that you take a moment to honor those who have lost their lives while defending our freedoms. In the words of Pres­i­dent John F. Kennedy: “ A nation reveals itself not only by the men it pro­duces, but also by the men it remem­bers, the men it hon­ors.”

I hope that you and your family have a relaxing and enjoyable holiday weekend. Please be safe and I ask that you take some time to remember all of those that serve and have served, especially those we memorialize this holiday. With best regards, I remain,

Yours truly,

Senator J.B. Jennings

P.S. If you find yourself indoors in front of the TV, I suggest you watch a movie that will air several times this weekend. It is a true story about a fallen Marine and his final journey home. I promise it will put into perspective the true purpose of this holiday. The movie is called “Taking Chance”. It will air on HBO Friday at 2pm, Saturday at 5am, Sunday at 8am & 9:30pm, and Monday at 3:30pm. Again, this is a true story that delivers a powerful message.