On this Memorial Day We Remember the fallen

May 26, 2023 | True Patriot News Daily

 

As Memorial Day approaches, we pause to reflect on the profound significance of this solemn occasion. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the countless men and women who selflessly gave their lives in service to our nation. It is a time when we honor their sacrifice, express our gratitude, and remember the true cost of freedom. Among the many stories of heroism and resilience, there is one that stands out—the heartfelt correspondence known as the Bixby Letter.

The Bixby Letter, written by President Abraham Lincoln during the height of the American Civil War, captures the essence of Memorial Day. Dated November 21, 1864, the letter was addressed to Mrs. Lydia Bixby, a mother who had lost five sons in the war. Its purpose was to offer solace and comfort to a grieving mother while recognizing the tremendous sacrifice her family had made.

“Dear Madam, I have been shown in the files of the War Department a statement of the Adjutant General of Massachusetts, that you are the mother of five sons who have died gloriously on the field of battle,” President Lincoln wrote. “I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of Freedom.”

The Bixby Letter encapsulates the deep empathy and gratitude felt by a nation for those who have given their lives. It reminds us that Memorial Day is not merely a long weekend or an opportunity for barbecues, but a time to reflect on the profound sacrifices made by our brave servicemen and servicewomen. Their courage and dedication are etched into the very fabric of our nation's history.

On this Memorial Day, as we gather with family and friends, let us remember the Bixby Letter and the countless other stories that embody the spirit of sacrifice. It is a day to visit cemeteries, where rows of white tombstones stand as a testament to the courage and selflessness of those who fought for our freedom. It is a day to fly the flag at half-staff, honoring the fallen. It is a day to participate in parades, paying tribute to our veterans and active-duty military personnel.

But most importantly, Memorial Day is a day of remembrance—a time to pause and reflect on the debt we owe to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It is a day to teach the younger generations about the valor and honor exhibited by our fallen heroes. By preserving their memories, we ensure that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.