Observed annually on the last Monday of May, Memorial Day is a day to remember the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Formerly known as Decoration Day, it started after the Civil War to commemorate the fallen Union soldiers of the Civil War. It now extends to honor all Americans who have died in all wars.

Last year my family had the opportunity to visit Arlington National Cemetery, just outside of Washington D.C. It is a sobering experience to see such a graphic representation of how many men and women have sacrificed, so that we may enjoy the freedoms we have.