I've been a shift-worker for almost all of my 11+ years on active duty, which means my schedule doesn't account for holidays and special events. So like any other blue collar shift-worker, I've had to head in on New Year's Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Christmas Eve for a midnight shift. And Memorial Day.
It doesn't bother me in the least. I've never crossed the icy Delaware River on Christmas Day. I've never geared up for the Forth of July by spending three days in the swealtering heat in southern Pennsylvania. I've worked on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day, and even on my birthday. Never under these conditions. I've worked a few Labor Day weekends before. This man spent seven of them in a POW camp. I've had it easy, so you'll hear no whining.
So while I'll be donning the uniform in a few minutes, I'll be thinking of the men and women who have sacrificed everything over our 230-year history.
Some Memorial Day links in the extended entry.
As usual, Mudville Gazette leads the way. In fact, you can just head to Mudville's homepage and scroll down. Same goes with Blackfive, although you should check out the video tributes.
Some Memorial Day reflections at MyPetJawa. And there's a series of photos at Soul of a Sailor, and he calls on us to remember those who gave their lives.
And a prayer, composed by my favorite poet, who was killed in action in July of 1918. Another of his poems is fitting; Memorial Day.
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