Taking Time to Remember

The past few Memorial Days, we've spent our time at Morningside Assisted Living visiting with the residents and then usually a cookout of some sort at my parent's home that evening.  With Michael having to work this year on the holiday and the parents heading to FL the following day, plans were sure to change.  I've always wanted to take the boys to the National Cemetery in Madison and mentioned it to a friend a few days prior.  When Monday rolled around, despite the rainy morning (and early storms), we decided to brave the weather and at least take a drive through the grounds to really gain a sense of what this sacred day means...honoring those that have given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.  We piled into two vehicles with 7 boys between us and spent the morning at this hallowed place.  So. Glad. We. Did.

The cemetery wasn't crowded at all...partly due to the weather I imagine.  Thankfully, the rain let up to a soft drizzle and we couldn't pass up the opportunity to get out, explore the grounds, and take in the history/honor/sacrifice up close.  We spied a group of men in the distance and headed their way to see a lovely statue standing somewhat alone in the middle of the grounds.  As we approached and made our introduction, a kind gentlemen began to tell us the story behind the statue and the amazing history it represents.  It is the only free standing US Colored Troops statue to be placed in a National Cemetery and honors all the fallen colored heroes that served their country so well.  A beautiful story and piece of our nation's background that deserves to be known and told.

 Quite a few were dressed in the traditional uniforms and filled our minds with so much information.  I wish I could've recorded it all...amazing facts that I had never heard.

The gentleman next to the statue on the left was the model for the sculpture.  Look closely and you can see the resemblance.

Amazing Air Force, Navy, and Marine veterans that taught us so much.

My sweet friend, LaRae...braving the rain for the best. Memorial. Day. Ever. :)

There were various coins on LOTS of grave markers around the cemetery.  Upon asking, we learned that each currency value means something different and lets the family know that someone stopped by to pay their respect...
Penny - Thank you for your sacrifice, "You are remembered"
Nickel - Trained at boot camp together
Dime - Served with him/her
Quarter - Was there when he/she died

That evening, we gathered at our home for an impromptu dinner of grilled fixins and sides.  

Memorial Day has always meant more than fun and lake to me, but today I was truly humbled.  To all of you with loved ones that have given their lives for my family's freedom, know that we honor you today and always.  Their sacrifice is not unnoticed or in vain.  We remember...