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Memorial Day has always been marked on my calendar as a day to pause and consider my freedom and the price that others have paid for it. For many, the last Monday in May represents the end of school and the beginning of summer. However, this year I would like to request that our community members take an hour or two that day to join us in honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, May 27, the Greenville Lion’s Club will be hosting a Memorial Day Service at Greenville High School’s Auditorium.  The service will include music, short presentations and a time to honor the various branches of our US Military.  After the service, there will be a lunch provided by the Greenville Lion’s Club. 

I am often in schools in the morning when students are reciting the Pledge. I always try to take time to explain the meaning of the Pledge of Allegiance and to explain the importance of honoring the U.S. Flag. I often ask the students how they would feel about the honor of the flag if they had lost a father, mother, brother, sister, extended family member or friend in war to defend our country.  It is imperative that our young people understand why the Pledge of Allegiance is so important and how reciting it and standing for the flag honors our country.

The Memorial Day Service is a time for us to take a moment to honor the men and women who gave their lives for our freedom. It also shows the family of those who perished for the cause of freedom that we appreciate their sacrifice too. This service gives us the ability to let them know that their sacrifice, along with their loved ones, will always be remembered and never be taken for granted.

Please consider joining us at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 27 in the Greenville Auditorium to commemorate Memorial Day as a community. Doors open at 9:30 a.m.

Dr. John Strycker is superintendent of education for the Butler County School System. You can email him at john.strycker@butlerco.k12.al.us