Friday, May 22, 2009

Memorial Day Weekend







On this Memorial Day weekend, I’m deviating slightly from my usual Afghanistan theme.

This past week, my organization suffered its first combat casualties in Afghanistan after being here for over four years. Both were due to IEDs. In the first one, our guy suffered only minor injuries, but it was a reminder that we are in a war zone.

On Wednesday that reminder was driven home more forcibly when we suffered our first fatality on the road between Kabul and Bagram. A US Army Air Force lieutenant also died in the blast and two Afghan Army officers in the vehicle were wounded.

I’ve done a more extensive Memorial Day post on my other blog Complex Topics.

The main point to remember is that Memorial Day is not about hotdogs and hamburgers and the opening day for pools, it is about remembering those who have given their lives for the United States of America. For my American readers, take a moment out of your busy weekend to remember those who have died and who are yet to die, so that you can enjoy your hamburger in peace.



5 comments:

Barbara Martin said...

Well said, J.L. I hope this weekend is peaceful for you. Take care.

Charles Gramlich said...

I'm sorry to hear about the injury and the loss. My thoughts are with everyone fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan this weekend.

Sunny said...

SO TRUE. We had our memorial day on the 9th of May, however I strongly believe that there shouldn't be any special.
Those who have died and who are yet to die are to be remembered each and every day.

The Muse said...

Hi J.L.

I'm saddened to hear this. I was thinking about you yesterday, actually everyday. I want you to know I appreciate you and everything you and the troops do to keep us safe and free.

Take care and be safe.

Ello - Ellen Oh said...

I'm so sorry. And yes, I did remember and appreciate all who have served for us. Peace.