Our opinion
The biggest faux pas of Memorial Day is when folks try to say “Happy Memorial Day!”
Their thoughts at that time of year are on barbecues and a day off from school or work, but the occasion is not a happy one. It is meant to honor those who have died for our country in a somber way.
Veterans Day is a day of thanks for all who have served our country past and present. We don’t have to be quite as reflective or melancholy on this day, as we honor and thank everyone who has put on a uniform and made their own personal sacrifices for the United States of America.
A poem by Joanna Fuchs summarizes the general sentiment toward our servicemen and women.
Without Them
Without them to leave behind
Their homes and families dear,
Without them to go to war,
We might not be here.
Without them to face the trials
We could never face,
The world we know would decline and fall.
It would be a different place.
Cherish our veterans who kept us free;
They gave it all up for you and me.
We could not be what we are today without our veterans; we owe them our very democracy. Habersham County veterans have the Killed In Action (KIA) Memorial in Clarkesville and the Wall of Honor in Cornelia to recognize them, with the latter about to get names inscribed on its fifth wall.
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Grant-Reeves Post 7720 is up and thriving again after losing its building, and now meets in the old Office Pro building in Cornelia. The VFW partners with the American Legion and other local organizations to advocate for veterans and ensure their needs are met.
Habersham County recently chipped in by having the KIA Memorial cleaned, something that was in dire need. Chairman Larry Whitfield and his board have made the Wall of Honor a true treasure for the county to recognize those who have served.
Thank a veteran today, tomorrow and every day, because chances are that he or she has already done something to protect your freedom, and would do so again.