In Memoriam

It's Memorial Day here in the US of A. What's everybody up to? Going to a veteran's memorial service? Driving back home from a big weekend up north?

I personally don't think we spend enough time honoring those who sacrificed their lives in order for us to be free. I wonder if our younger generation (those under 20) understands just what it means. They have no idea what war is like.

The last US war ended in 2021 - Afghanistan. You remember that hideous withdrawl, right? 13 US soldiers died that day. Here are their names.

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza, 20, of Rio Bravo, Texas

Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole L. Gee, 23, of Sacramento, Calif.

Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover, 31, of Salt Lake City, Utah

Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss, 23, of Corryton, Tenn.

Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22, of Indio, Calif.

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum, 20, of Jackson, Wyo.

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola, 20, of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui, 20, of Norco, Calif.

Marine Corps Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, 25, of Lawrence, Mass.

Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez, 22, of Logansport, Ind.

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz, 20, of St. Charles, Mo.

Navy Hospital Corpsman Maxton W. Soviak, 22, of Berlin Heights, Ohio

Marine Corps Cpl. Daegan W. Page, 23, of Omaha, Neb.

I know that other soldiers have died serving our country since these 13 perished in Afghanistan but these 13 came to mind for me. And look at their ages. All but one of them were in their 20's. Most of them in their EARLY 20's.

They were strong and courageous. I do not know if any of them knew The Lord. I hope they did. But this Psalm is for them regardless:

"Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle; he is my steadfast love and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield and he in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me." - Psalm 144:1-2

May this Memorial Day be one of rememberance and honor for the fallen heroes of our country. And may there be no more names added to the list of the dead.

Thank you for your service and your sacrifice, and may the Lord above guard the hearts of their families and friends . . . today and always.