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To understand what Memorial Day truly means, you have to understand what the uniform represents.
My very first encounter with the United States Armed Forces happened at a point of entry. It was 3:00 AM. I was utterly exhausted with two small children after a grueling, day-long journey. I looked a mess and felt entirely drained, but the moment I locked eyes with a young service member standing, always watching, my heart swelled and tears instantly filled my eyes. He looked like a baby to me, yet he carried the weight of the world.
I was finally in America.
He represented a legacy of freedom that my family has deeply respected my entire life. As the granddaughter of a military veteran and the sister-in-law of an active-duty service member, our family knows the profound sacrifices required of both the brave souls who serve and the families who wait for them at home. We deeply understand the power behind that uniform.
As we walked past, my innocent young son pointed his small finger and whispered, "Mom, look at the soldier." He was too young to comprehend the history or the strength wrapped in that camouflage, but the soldier simply smiled down at us and offered a warm hello. When I answered back, he caught the accent in my voice. He looked right at us and said:
"Welcome to America."
I have never forgotten his voice. Even today, I can still hear it clearly.
To those of us who came here the right way, as true immigrants who fought, sacrificed, and waited to enter this country being welcomed into this nation is the ultimate gift. But to be welcomed at the finish line by a powerful guardian of American liberty was a profound honor. To that young man, he was probably just being polite to a tired mother. To me, it was a moment etched into my soul forever.
So today, on Memorial Day, I honor the brave men and women who died representing that uniform. I thank them for the ultimate sacrifices they laid down on the altar of freedom. I will never, ever forget what you did so that my family and I could have the distinct honor of becoming a part of this great nation.
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