Memorial Day is a time to remember those who died in service to our country. The observance, originally known as Decoration Day, goes back to the years following the Civil War and honors those who have died in service to our Nation. It became an official federal holiday in 1971. While Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial beginning of the summer season and is typically celebrated with parades and social festivities, Memorial Day should be observed with reverence and gratitude.
However you are
spending this weekend, please join me in taking time to reflect on the real
meaning of Memorial Day and honor the memory of those who made the
ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms we cherish.
MEMORIAL DAY LINKS
Songs Remembering Fallen Heroes
Arlington National Cemetery is one many national cemeteries around the country. Established after the Civil War, it is the final resting place for more than 400,000 active duty service members, veterans, and their families. It is one of the most beautiful and sacred places I have ever been to. The beautiful rolling hills, the magnificent old trees, and the endless rows of perfectly placed headstones are breathtaking. A perfect resting place for so many brave men and women who have served our country.
On May 12, my husband and I had the honor of being present for the burial ceremony of our dear friend, Col. James Crawford, at Arlington National Cemetery. Jim was a true gentleman, a loving husband, father and grandfather, a loyal friend, and a proud Marine. We will forever remember him with love and shall be forever grateful for having had the privilege of calling him our friend.
Thanks to my husband's USMC brother and friend, Denham Clements,
for sharing the following photos and videos from Jim Crawford's service.
for sharing the following photos and videos from Jim Crawford's service.
Click lower right corner of videos to enlarge.
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In September 2017 my husband and I attended the 50th
reunion of his United States Marine Corps Officers Basic School Class.
As we gathered with his Marine Corps brothers, the bond was strong, as
memories were shared, and those who are no longer with us were
remembered. Memorial Day has a special meaning for these men and it is
with heavy hearts that they remember those who made the ultimate
sacrifice.
Today my husband and I remember our special friends who are no longer with us,
Jim Crawford and Bob "Heavy" Petrella.
SEMPER FI Jim Crawford and Bob "Heavy" Petrella.
We also remember my husband's parents, Vic and Roz Bellini,
who are inurned in a columbarium at Arlington National Cemetery.
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