In Memory of our Fallen Soldiers

Posted May 25, 2015 by Prairie Wife - 2 comments

The Civil War was the first war in America that claimed so many lives that national cemeteries were created. To show honor to the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice, local citizens would leave flowers and flags on their graves. What was originally called Decoration Day is now known as Memorial Day.

As I sat down to type this post my first thought was for our two past Prairie Wives who know more than anyone the sacrifices that our military men and women are called to make for our country. General Kathy Wright is a hero not only for her service to our country but, for her contributions towards equality in the military. Our past Prairie Wife Kathryn’s story is the story of many of the wives in our country with husbands who serve overseas.

As I watch my two youngest boys running outside across the Prairie in their mudboots, the wind rushes through their hair and carries their laughter through our open windows. The joy I feel in watching this simple scene is followed by a pain in my heart.

There are many mothers out there that watched their children grow as I am watching mine, and with pride sent them off to fight for their country. Mother’s that will no longer know the sound of their name being called out by their child. Women who bear a sorrow that many of us pray daily to never know.

It is for these mothers that I will take a moment on Monday to draw my children close. To hold them in my arms when they can no longer hold theirs, and tell them the story of the brave men and women who fought for our country, for families and friends, and for millions of people they would never know. I will teach them about pride in our country and respect for the flag. I will tell them we must honor this land of the brave and strive to make it a better place.

We will close our eyes and say a prayer for all the fallen soldiers and the friends and family they have left behind. Afterwards, as my children run away to go enjoy their day off, as they stomp in Spring mud puddles and jump on the trampoline, I will smile and say a prayer of thanks to those mothers for their sacrifice.

God bless America and God bless our Soldiers and their families.