My first trip to the American Cemetary in Normandy was awe-inspiring and sad, even though I didn’t fully understand what it meant for the soldiers who laid in hallowed grounds. I was 16 and visiting France on a school trip from RAF West Ruislip. The cemetery’s expanse was larger than I imagined it would be, and I suddenly felt a loss for words. I only semi-understood why moments of silence were befitting for certain times, but knew this was one of them.
Nearly twenty years later, on a random trip to Fort Stewart Military Base in Savannah, Georgia, I felt the same somberness move me at Warrior’s Walk. I drove by Warrior’s Walk in the past, but felt the need to honor those who honored our country with their lives.
The Warrrior’s Walk is dedicated to the men and women of the U.S. Army stationed on Fort Stewart who gave their lives to defend my rights, our rights, as free men and women of the United States. Yes, they took an oath to protect this country, and upheld it with the ultimate sacrifice.
On this day, the locale was similar to a movie scene as the rain came down in sheets. The beloved mementos of photos, baby dolls, Christmas ornaments, love letters, cards and cherished belongings of children left for family members not returning home swayed in the elements.
Miniature flags also waved in the wind and rain, and was a deep reminder of each soldier who lost their life for the battle of freedom as each flag represents a life lost. I felt as if each flag told me, in its own courageous way, be grateful for my freedom because someone’s loved one would not return home to celebrate another blessed day. I, however, got into my car with my family and went home to spend the day with them, eat a hot meal and sleep in my comfortable bed.
While American’s barbecue and take advantage of consumerism at it’s best with big sales, there will be those who are not sharing the day with their loved ones. They will not have the luxury of morning coffee, or Sunday’s sermon. They will not be putting their children to bed at night, while some are not even here to see their children’s births.
I dare not forget this, and am thankful. I am thankful for the freedom that is being fought for, and I will always keep the veterans close to my heart.
