EDITOR'S NOTE: This column first printed on May 23, 2013.
Memorial Day should mean more than a three-day weekend.
This weekend isn't simply a time for barbecues, family get-togethers and an extra day off of work.
It's set aside to pay tribute to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice -- their lives -- so that we may have freedom.
However we differ on politics, religion, etc., most Americans can agree that the soldiers who sacrificed for our freedom deserve our utmost gratitude. Their service and selfless acts merit honor and reflection.
One way to show respect is remembering the reason we celebrate Memorial Day.
First observed in 1868 and becoming an official federal holiday in 1971, Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer, is dedicated to the men and women who died while in the military service. Locally, a number of soldiers have given the ultimate sacrifice, helping win and maintain the freedoms we enjoy and too often take for granted.
There are scores of Mississippi Countians' names inscribed at the monuments on the Blytheville Courthouse lawn, all of whom perished in battle.
On Monday, as they do each year, American Legion and local officials will hold an 11 a.m. Memorial Day service at the courthouse in Blytheville, paying tribute to those who died fighting for this great country.
Veterans from the different wars usually gather, some in the old uniforms, for the moving ceremony. It's a nice tribute to the fallen.
There is no shortage of heroes who called Mississippi County home, some returning to their families and others who did not.
Hopefully, the spirit of Memorial Day isn't reduced to a three-day weekend. Those who paid the ultimate sacrifice deserve better.
Take a moment Monday -- and all weekend, for that matter -- to remember those who made it possible for families to come together freely and do what they wish. Remember their sacrifice and the sacrifice and tears shed by family members, who lost their loved ones in battle.
As the old saying goes: Freedom isn't free.
If it hadn't been for those willing to fight and die for what the flag represents, we wouldn't have the freedoms we enjoy today -- again, ones too often taken for granted.
The ability to gather with family, worship as we wish, travel at will, enjoy all of life's little pleasures -- it's all made possible because someone was willing to hug his family members one final time and defend those freedoms.
With the somber sounds of taps in the background and tears in their eyes, family members and friends were forced to say goodbye to their loved one, leaning into a flag-draped casket.
Arlington National Cemetery and cemeteries in Blytheville, across Arkansas and the United States are home to such soldiers and ceremonies for those who sacrificed their lives for their country.
To all those who risked their lives and the families that endure the distresses, thank you for your service to the greatest nation on earth.
mbrasfield@blythevillecourier.com