Kristen Verille, a Rye High School senior who will be heading to Bucknell University in the fall, as a pre-med student, won first place in the John M. Kingery Memorial Essay Contest.

By Kristen Verille

 

The author, a Rye High School senior who will be heading to Bucknell University in the fall, as a pre-med student, won first place in the John M. Kingery Memorial Essay Contest.

Memorial Day is one of the most important holidays in the United States, due to the fact that it honors the nation’s fallen heroes. It is because of these heroes that American citizens are able to enjoy their lives today, and America will always be in debt to its fallen soldiers. As Muhammad once wisely said, “Four things support the world: the learning of the wise, the justice of the great, the prayers of the good, and the valor of the brave”.

 

The valor of the courageous fallen soldiers who fought for America’s freedom is what is honored on Memorial Day each year, and it is for this reason that it is important to continue to celebrate this holiday.

 

To me, Memorial Day is a day of thanks. Just as on Thanksgiving people share thanks with their families, on Memorial Day people pay homage to the valiant men and women who have fought to protect this nation’s freedoms. For mourning families, Memorial Day offers a chance to share memories of their loved ones while truly seeing how appreciated their service was. Memorial Day allows members of society to step back from their daily lives and be thankful for the men and women who risked their lives in order to maintain peace and order within America.

 

It is extremely important to continue to honor the nation’s fallen soldiers, in order that we not forget the sacrifices they have made for us. These men and women have left both their loved ones and lives behind in their efforts to serve and protect the nation they love. We, as American citizens, should never forget those who have given their lives in the line of duty, protecting the nation they love.

 

It is easy to forget that for millions of people throughout the world, America provides a symbol of hope and freedom. One glimpse of the red, white, and blue flag is enough to give these people hope for a better future. The fallen soldiers that we honor on Memorial Day fought to the death to allow Americans to maintain this magnificent reputation throughout the world.

 

Memorial Day is a day to remember, a day to give thanks, and a day to reflect on the numerous lives lost in service to this country. Memorial Day ensures that Americans never forget those who have given their lives, and always remember the freedom America is based on.