"the memory shall be ours..."

“A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.”-Joseph Campbell

      It is easy for many civilians to forget that American troops are still deployed overseas in  places like Afghanistan for up to twelve to eighteen months at a time. They leave behind  friends, families and loved ones while putting their lives at risk to continue to protect our freedom.

Memorial Day was first enacted in memory of the soldiers who fought in the American Civil War but later, Memorial Day was expanded to commemorate the soldiers who fought in all American wars, including the World Wars.

 Many civilians are also unaware that active soldiers, veterans and their families are in need of long term additional support. This is where many non-profit organizations pick up where sadly our government has left off. These reputable hard working non-profit organizations assist all of us in giving back to our troops and their families who have sacrificed so much.

 Monday, May 27th, my sister-in-law and I, as well as thousands of grateful supporters will be participating in the Memorial Day "Ringing in Hope  Salute to Our Troops"  5k and 10k run/walk. Below is a list of the organizations the run will benefit.

Fisher House provides a "home away from home" for military families to be close to a loved one during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury.

Operation Gratitude seeks to lift morale in the Military Community by sending care packages addressed to individual Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines deployed overseas, to their children left behind, and to Veterans, First Responders, Wounded Warriors and their Care Givers. Operation Gratitude Care Packages contain food, hygiene products, entertainment items and personal letters of appreciation, all wrapped with good wishes of love and support.

Wounded Warrior Project provides programs and services to severely injured service members during the time between active duty and transition to civilian life.

This run/walk and other 5K-10K runs in the next few months will also help me prepare for the 26K Marine Corps  Marathon in October as a proud member of Team Mission Continues.

Most people spend precious time with loved ones on Memorial Day traveling, cooking or enjoying a day off from work but we must also take time to reflect on what Memorial Day truly means.  Remember those who gave their lives in service for a cause much larger than themselves.