Memorial Day means different things to different people. To some it is the unofficial beginning of summer -- picnics with family, trips to the beach, a day off from work.

It's too easy to lose sight of the real reason for the holiday. For all of us, Memorial Day should be that time when we commemorate those men and women who served in our military, and many times gave their lives so that we as a nation may enjoy the freedoms we so easily take for granted.

Gone are the days when we could sit back and know that our oceans would protect us. We know that in order to continue to protect our freedoms we hold so dearly, we must take the battle to the terrorists and promote freedom throughout the world.

Our brave military men and women are doing this right now and we salute them, support them and honor them. They are true patriots, and without them we would have no heroes to honor on this Memorial Day.

Veterans are a unique group of citizens. They are all heroes who faced enemies and carried out their mission to keep America safe. They had the unique privilege of serving their country. They are ordinary Americans who made extraordinary sacrifices.

I encourage all veterans to wear their military decorations this Memorial Day. When you see a veteran or someone in uniform, extend a hand in gratitude, and thank them for paying the price for our freedom. Our freedom comes at a huge cost and someone must keep making those payments.

I encourage all to participate in one of the many ceremonies taking place this Memorial Day. Whether at one of the cemeteries, or the dedication of the new Veterans Memorial at the Bush Street Park in Lemoore, we must remember those who sacrificed, and sometimes gave all for our country.

We must honor them, and recognize that we are deeply indebted to them. We must also recognize that the struggle to be free goes on today.

Joe Wright, retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer, is the Veterans Service Officer for Kings County.

(May 25, 2009)