As we kick off the summer season with Memorial Day, please take the time to think about how very blessed we are to call our great Nation home. There will be so much going on wherever you look — from picnics and family get-togethers to graduation parties to folks taking advantage of the long weekend to kick off their summer travel. In our little corner of Penn’s Woods, there will be biking, hiking, boating, and fishing. And, of course, motorcycle riding. Pretty much any outdoor activity you can think of is available for you to enjoy. There will be plenty of ball games to attend or to even play in at those family get-togethers.

Whatever you’re doing, I’m sure there will be picnic food and summertime cuisine involved. This always includes hot dogs and hamburgers, and your favorite side salads. But in our neck of the woods, almost every family has traditions to kick it up a notch. One of my favorites is steamed clams. And, of course, there will be plenty of ice-cold beverages at every event. Some families even have a summertime take on drinks to kick it up a notch. So, to get my public service message in a little early, please don’t drink and drive or allow one too many to affect your good behavior in whatever you’re doing.

I just hope we have beautiful weather for the Memorial Day weekend — plenty of sunshine, warm temperatures, and no worries about covering anything due to frost.

Most importantly, as you’re enjoying your freedom to do whatever you would like to, remember what Memorial Day is all about. Please take the time to remember, honor, and reflect on those that gave their future for our liberty.

President George H.W. Bush captures the reality of Memorial Day with the words, “Each of the Patriots we remember on this day was first a beloved son or daughter, a brother or sister, or a spouse, friend, and neighbor.” Please share this perspective with your children and grandchildren so they understand not only the meaning of Memorial Day, but the true cost paid by so many.

I believe in the world we live too many people think of the American soldier as a faceless entity within that uniform. By teaching our children, hopefully, we can change this perspective. The importance of the American soldier and the honor, respect, and remembrance they receive must be unwavering.

Toby Keith’s song, “American Soldier,” has become a 4th of July anthem for America. There’s a verse within that song many Americans need to hear for Memorial Day. I’m glad I don’t have to sing it for you, so here are the words. I’m sure many of you will hear Toby singing in your head.

“And I will always do my duty, no matter what the price. I’ve counted up the cost; I know the sacrifice.

“Oh, and I don’t wanna die for you, but if dying’s asked of me. I’ll bear that cross with honor ’cause freedom don’t come free.”

Those in service to our Nation did not want to leave that empty seat at the table or give up their future. But unfortunately, this fate found them. They are true American Heroes since the founding of our Nation.

I will finish things up this week with another George H.W. Bush remembrance, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget the highest appreciation is not to utter the words but to live them.”

We must be sure to honor the past, support the present, and make sure all veterans and their families are taken care of. Doing so will hopefully provide us with American soldiers for the future.

God Bless America.