Dear OARS Women Veterans, Guest, Supporters, and our Family:
As we approach this Memorial Day, it might be hard for some of us military mighty to “enjoy” a BBQ. But what should a person do for honoring the lost ones, the missing ones, and the unknowns but only to God ones?
We who served are all too familiar with what to do. We cannot help but to think of the ones who never returned or the ones who made it home only to lose their battle later on. We leave an empty seat and a glass with a small liquid representing sharing the drink with our buddy.
There are many ways. One could attend the cemetery recognition and honors. Or go to dinner with a surviving family member. Or one could even reflect on the cost of war that each loss represents while also visiting a cemetery alone.
There are those who don’t even know why it is an important day anymore. There are some who see it strictly as a day to get toasted. I prefer to try to enjoy the day as the lost person would want while also reflecting on the cost of that loss.
I have lost family members in war, and after war from the effects of the war during which they served. Celebrate the living on this day of remembrance but also honor the meaning of Memorial Day as you see fit privately.
I wrote the following Elegy poem [Up to the Living], after I lost a friend in the Iraq War. I hope it means as much to you during this month as it has meant to me. I added the [obituary] for your education of Capt. Jennifer Harris.
Julia Sheriden
Founder and President
OARS for Women Veterans
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