"Dear Heavenly Father,

With a somber heart we come before You this Memorial Day.
We pause for a moment and call to mind all the men and women
Who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country,
From 1776 until today."

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Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season.

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In my 11-generation family tree, I have discovered and verified at least 3 direct ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary War. One was killed.

Four of my ancestors then fought in the War of 1812. One more great, great, great, great grandfather gave his life for the USA.

This family history of military wartime service & sacrifice continued on with the Union Side in the Civil War. A great, great grandfather died as a result of that war.

After him, my one grandmother grew up without a father because of WWI. Over the generations, so many in my family (and other American families) gave their lives for their country. They all had chosen to fight to defend the USA. Each one had enlisted and went willingly to serve. America owes much to these brave souls who are now a part of history. They should never be forgotten.