Remembering The Fallen – Memorial Day 2015

The following post was originally written and posted on this blog for Memorial Day 2012.  As I considered a post for this Memorial Day, I realized that I could not come up with a better message than this that captures the true essence of my feelings for this solemn day.  Today, we must pause, reflect, honor and appreciate the true sacrifice of our fallen soldiers, sailors and airman.  Those who have gone before deserve nothing less than our deepest gratitude; today, always, and forever.

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Throughout our Nation’s history, ordinary men and women have left the safe bounds of their normal lives to set out to do extraordinary deeds.  These sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers departed their families and the comforts of home to join something greater than themselves, in a noble tradition of patriotism and pride for the purpose of fighting to protect our way of life.

While most are being handed a burger or hot dog off the grill to enjoy on this solemn holiday, somewhere there is a family being handed a folded American flag being told, “On behalf of a grateful nation…”  While many in this Country are celebrating the homecoming of their college friends and family after a long year of study, there will be no homecoming for some who have fought and died in our Country’s battles.  They sacrificed their own homecoming so that others would still have theirs.  These are true heroes, and we owe them much more than one day of solemn remembrance and reverence.

On this Memorial Day, one of our Nation’s most solemn and revered holidays, we all pause to reflect upon the principles that have made our Nation great.  We pause to remember the true cost of freedom and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.  The brave men and women we honor today selflessly gave of themselves to defend a way of life that we all cherish: NEVER FORGET!

Related Content –

Memorial Day History (via usmemorialday.org)

History.com Memorial Day (via The History Channel)

A Memorial Day Message From The VFW (via vfw.org)

Memorial Day – A Pause To Remember (via generalleadership.com)

The True Meaning of Memorial Day (via The Bridge on medium.com)

Reflections on Memorial Day – Past and Present (via The Bridge on medium.com)

Photo Credit:

Memorial Day 2015 Best Soldiers Quotes, Sayings & Images (via http://www.fathersdayrock.com/, accessed 25 May 2015)

This Memorial Day, Pause To Remember (also linked here: http://ow.ly/i/aUfK5/original (via http://www.vfw.org/, accessed 25 May 2015)

To All Veterans on This Veterans Day…

THANK YOU!!!

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Freedom isn’t free.  Men and women throughout our history have paid the price, sometimes the ultimate price of their lives, to ensure your life of freedom is preserved for you now and long into the future.  On this Veterans Day, we honor…we thank…we celebrate their courage, commitment and sacrifice for us; your fellow Americans.

Thank a Veteran today! Thank them for paving the road to continued freedom and fighting to ensure that our Country’s ideals are secured.  We owe them more than a dedicated day on the calendar.

Freedom Isn’t Free

And, this is why they fight and why we honor:

For freedom, they stand and fight:

The 237th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps

There are few who are as true to the core,  who are so tremendously proud to serve their Country, as those of the United States Marine Corps.  If you have known, have met, served with, or served as a Marine, you know what I mean.  Today is the Marine Corps’ 237th Birthday, and they deserve to be honored and celebrated today.  On November 10, 1775, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Captain Samuel Nicholas formed two battalions of Continental Marines as naval infantry.  I dedicate this message to all U.S. Marines; retired, active duty, reserve, and those who aspire to become Marines.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY, OORAH and SEMPER FI!!!

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“Some people wonder all their lives if they’ve made a difference.  The Marines don’t have that problem.”

President Ronald Wilson Reagan

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FOR HONOR

FOR COUNTRY

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2012 Marine Corps Birthday Message

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Warriors of Honor, Courage and Commitment

Becoming a warrior means joining a brotherhood, forged in the crucible of training and proven on the battlefield.  A true warrior is measured not only by his strength, but his honor.  No battle is ever won alone.  Warriors never rest.  Anyone can follow a path; Few make their own.  Every warrior lives for the fight.  For there is always another battle waiting to be fought and won.

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United States Marine Corps 237th Birthday Tribute 2012 | Official GoDaddy.com Video

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Index of Marine Corps-related Blog Posts on Command Performance Leadership:

A United States Marine Corps MBA

Inspirational Wisdom from a War-Hardened Marine Corps Officer

Making Marine Corps Officers

How Would the Marines Run Your Business?

Quote of the Day By General John A. Lejeune

Leading the Charge: Leadership Lessons from the Battlefield to the Boardroom

Decision-Making in the New ‘Leadership Organization’

Improvise, Adapt and Overcome ~ Changing Plans, But Not Changing Vision

Putting the Principles into Practice

The United States Marine Corps Roadside Assistance Service

The Birthday of the United States Navy ~ October 13, 1775

Listen to THIS while reading this post!!! (link will open in new window to allow you to read the post while listening to “Anchors Aweigh.”)

“Without a decisive Naval force we can
do nothing definitive – and with it,
everything honorable and glorious.”

George Washington to Marquis de Lafayette, November 15, 1781

Today, October 13th, we celebrate a birthday.  We pause to celebrate the great heritage and birthday of the United States Navy; a formidable force in war, a potent power in peace, a respected adversary in conflict, an effective deterrent to war, and a welcomed means of compassionate assistance to those whose misfortunes make the Navy the means of their survival and hope.

On October 13th, 1775, the Continental Congress passed a resolution creating the Continental Navy.  For 242 years, men and women have accepted the rigors of our nation’s naval service.  For as long as our men and women have gone to sea in ships, they have felt the awesome urging and mystery which takes them from those they love, and to whom they long to return.  They have known that life lived only for one’s self is too constrictive, they have taken up arms for lives more precious than their own.  The sailor’s dedication to successfully sail the unobstructed seas is celebrated today on the birthday of the United States Navy.

Today, we celebrate the maturation of thousands of young Americans who, because of their service in the U.S. Navy, have sharpened their understanding of responsibility and honor.  We celebrate the countless hours of selfless sacrifice and devoted service evidenced by those of our Navy.  We celebrate the patience of those who accept without protest the hardships of shipboard life: living with seasickness, undergoing lengthy separations and enduring cramped living environments.

America’s fighting men and women of the United States Navy, standing on guard over the free world, are held together by a common bond; their love of life and liberty for ourselves and for our loved ones.  When hostility and conflict threaten the stability of peace, when turmoil and chaos erupt around the world, the Navy is forward deployed and positioned as a floating fortress of men and machines blanketing the globe, striving to make the world a better place.

Today, their valor is commemorated and we properly honor their outstanding service.  The men and women of the United States Navy devote themselves to the fullest accomplishment of their every responsibility.  Their nation looks to them with pride and as a model of excellence in execution of every task.  We celebrate this glorious day with deep gratitude.

Today, we share the mystical experience of the sea so hard to describe to someone who has never known it.  We share the disciplined training in preparing for events we hope will never happen.  We share their sadness at leaving those they love and their joy in returning to them again.  We share their conviction that no other job would be quite so satisfying as serving at sea with men and women we respect and admire.  We share their sense of adventure in looking forward to new ports and, as yet, unsailed seas.

Throughout history, the seafaring men and women of the U.S. Navy, heroes one and all, have always stood at the ready.  By sea and by air, the U.S. Navy has always answered duty’s call.  From the sailors on deck to the skilled pilots of fighter jets, the men and women of our Navy work with one goal in mind: to defend freedom wherever it may be challenged.

They’re out to sea for sometimes six, or even nine months. or more leaving behind friends, loved ones and the comfort of home.  They brave the mighty oceans around the far-flung corners of the globe never knowing where duty may call; the duty to protect America’s liberty.  They courageously do what every sailor in the United States Navy has done before; at the ready for duty, ever vigilant, and prepared to defend America.

As Americans, knowing that these valiant heroes are protecting us with unyielding courage and honor, should give us great comfort.  The Department of the Navy, as a portrait of honor and service, speaks to the patriot in us all.

I am a United States Sailor.
I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me.
I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world.
I proudly serve my country’s Navy combat team with Honor, Courage and Commitment.
I am committed to excellence and the fair treatment of all.

🔊: Our #242NavyBday week continues with this #HappyBirthday message from @SECNAV76. pic.twitter.com/22C7Of0A7N

— U.S. Navy (@USNavy) October 12, 2017

🔊: Our #242NavyBday week continues with this #HappyBirthday message from @CNORichardson and @NavyMCPON. pic.twitter.com/s2gY4QCoF0

— U.S. Navy (@USNavy) October 12, 2017

Happy #242NavyBday! 🎂🎈

RT to celebrate America's seapower to protect and promote! 🇺🇸⚓ pic.twitter.com/VtiscDgDj3

— U.S. Navy (@USNavy) October 13, 2017

Related Articles –

A Global Force for Good (nebraskaenergyobserver.wordpress.com)

Navy Birthday Information – 13 October 1775 (history.navy.mil)

Navy Birthday – 13 October 1775 (history.navy.mil)

Celebrating 242 Years on October 13! (navy.mil)

The Navy Turns 242 (military.com)

Articles and Links from Original Posting on 10/13/2012 =

237 Years of Putting Warfighting First (navy.mil)

SecNav Highlights Heritage and Warfighting in Birthday Message to the Fleet (navy.mil)

SECNAV Navy Birthday Message (navy.mil)

CNO Navy Birthday Message (navy.mil)

MCPON’s Navy Birthday Message (navy.mil)

Naval Station Norfolk Holds Birthday Celebration (navy.mil)

Six Key Words for CNO Birthday Message: Warfighting First, Operate Forward, and Be Ready (navy.mil)

Celebrating the Birth of a Nation (July 4, 1776)

Today, we celebrate the 236th anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America, the birth of a sovereign Nation and the courageous men who were willing to support and defend its freedom and liberty.  Each citizen of the United States can learn lessons from our Founding Fathers and their vision of a country that would become a beacon for liberty around the World.  Our Nation has faced many external and internal challenges to its freedom and liberty throughout its 236 year history.  But, as a Nation, and as a people, we have overcome the tyranny of our foes and have remained strong.  The foundation that was laid in 1776 is the bedrock of solid ground that will never falter, crack or be replaced.  We celebrate this today, and everyday.  Have a safe and happy Independence Day!

Inspired Leadership to the Troops on D-Day, June 6, 1944

Today marks the 68th anniversary of D-Day — the Allied Invasion of Normandy, the largest and most complex operation of Wold War II, that helped turn the tide of the War.  More than 2,500 Allied troops made the ultimate sacrifice during the Normandy Landings to secure the freedom that we enjoy both in Europe and at home in the U.S.  I could have written a lot about D-Day and the military leadership that planned and executed the largest amphibious assault in history.  I had a lot swirling in my mind on what I could write.  But, I came across the image below of a quote from General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s D-Day message to the troops who would fight on Normandy’s beaches.  These words say much more than I could ever say here about the inspiration, courage, trust and empowerment that Eisenhower displays in his message.  Like a football coach before a big game, speaking to his players before they take the field of battle, General Eisenhower conveys to the troops his full faith and confidence in their abilities to achieve nothing less than full victory.

D-Day     June 6, 1944

You are about to embark upon the great crusade toward which we have striven these many months.  The eyes of the World are upon you…I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle.

General Dwight D. Eisenhower

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Additional Resource for this Content –

General Eisenhower’s Message Sent Just Prior to the Invasion (with text and audio)

Highly Recommended Online Content on D-Day and the Commemoration of its 68th Anniversary –

D-Day Fact Sheet – 6 June 1944 – Normandy, France

Operation Overlord: Invasion of Normandy (Naval History & Heritage Command)

U.S. Army’s D-Day – June 6, 1944 Resource Page (U.S. Army Website)

June 6, 1944: D-Day – Broadside Blog – Military Times

Remembering D-Day June 6, 1944 (DOD Live)

This Day in History – June 6, 1944: D-Day (The History Channel)

President Ronald Reagan’s Normandy Speech: Ceremony Commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the Normandy Invasion, D-Day (video)

President Ronald Reagan’s Speech at Point-du-Hoc, Normandy (video)

WWII Vet Recalls ‘Bad Deal’ Infantry Faced on D-Day (Stars and Strips Magazine)

‘Band of Brothers’ Honored on D-Day Anniversary (Military Times)

Warriors of Yesterday, Today Commemorate D-Day Together (U.S. Army Website)

Veterans, Contemporary Warriors Salute D-Day Landings

Video: Paratroopers Jump in Normandy – Paratroopers from five different nations perform airborne operations commemorating the 68th year anniversary of D-Day

D-Day: More Americans Died During Invasion than in All of Iraq War (New York Daily News)

D-Day, June 6th 1944 (06-06-12)… (1idvet.com)

The Mighty Endeavor (nebraskaenergyobserver.wordpress.com)

Remembering Our Heroes – Memorial Day 2012

Throughout our Nation’s history, ordinary men and women have left the safe bounds of their normal lives to set out to do extraordinary deeds.  These sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers departed their families and the comforts of home to join something greater than themselves, in a noble tradition of patriotism and pride for the purpose of fighting to protect our way of life.

While most are being handed a burger or hot dog off the grill to enjoy on this solemn holiday, somewhere there is a family being handed a folded American flag being told, “On behalf of a grateful nation…”  While many in this Country are celebrating the homecoming of their college friends and family after a long year of study, there will be no homecoming for some who have fought and died in our Country’s battles.  They sacrificed their own homecoming so that others would still have theirs.  These are true heroes, and we owe them much more than one day of solemn remembrance and reverence.

On this Memorial Day, one of our Nation’s most solemn and revered holidays, we all pause to reflect upon the principles that have made our Nation great.  We pause to remember the true cost of freedom and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.  The brave men and women we honor today selflessly gave of themselves to defend a way of life that we all cherish: NEVER FORGET!

Related Content –

U.S. Department of Defense – Memorial Day 2012

Memorial Day Message, As Delivered by Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta

Chief of Naval Operations’ Tribute to Sailors – Your American Sailor

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Sends Memorial Day Message

Air Force leaders issue Memorial Day message

Our Soldiers Show Courage Without Limit

Tribute to the Troops (May 2012)

Memorial Day 2012: A Compendium

Memorial Day: Take Pause…The Fallen Deserve At Least That

Memorial Day 2012

Decoration Day

Decoration Day

 

Sleep, comrades, sleep and rest

On this Field of the Grounded Arms,

Where foes no more molest,

Nor sentry’s shot alarms!

 

Ye have slept on the ground before,

And started to your feet

At the cannon’s sudden roar,

Or the drum’s redoubling beat.

 

But in this camp of Death

No sound your slumber breaks;

Here is no fevered breath,

No wound that bleeds and aches.

 

All is repose and peace,

Untrampled lies the sod;

The shouts of battle cease,

It is the Truce of God!

 

Rest, comrades, rest and sleep!

The thoughts of men shall be

As sentinels to keep

Your rest from danger free.

 

Your silent tents of green

We deck with fragrant flowers

Yours has the suffering been,

The memory shall be ours.

 

   — Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

 

 

Source –

 

A Memorial Day Poem by Longfellow, From The Atlantic, June 1882 (theatlantic.com)

“Duty, Honor, Country”

General Douglas MacArthur

Sylvanus Thayer Award Acceptance Address

Delivered 12 May 1962, West Point, NY

“Duty, Honor, Country”

(Click Picture Below to Read Text & Listen to Audio of This Speech)

Source: American Rhetoric Top 100 Speeches: General Douglas MacArthur’s Sylvanus Thayer Award Acceptance Address | Main Page | Audio File | .pdf of Speech

Related Articles –

Eye Witness Account of the Address (usma1962.westpointaog.com)

General Douglas MacArthur – “Farewell Address to Congress” (americanrhetoric.com)

Douglas MacArthur’s Principles of Leadership (commandperformanceleadership.wordpress.com)

The United States Military Academy at West Point ~ Established March 16, 1802 (commandperformanceleadership.wordpress.com)

 

What Will Your Leadership Legacy Be?

Quote of the Day

“And when at some future date the high court of history sits in judgment on each of us, recording whether in our brief span of service we fulfilled our responsibilities to the state, our success or failure in whatever office we hold, will be measured by the answers to four questions: First, were we truly men of courage…Second, were we truly men of judgment…Third, were we truly men of integrity…Finally, were we truly men of Dedication?”[i][ii]*

John F. Kennedy

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* Address of President-Elect John F. Kennedy Delivered to a Joint Convention of the General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, The State House, Boston, January 9, 1961. Also know as the “City Upon a Hill” speech.

Audio and text of this speech can be found at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum online HERE AND audio with historical perspective can be found at The Speeches of President John F. Kennedy website HERE.

Footnotes –

[i] Montor, Karel. Naval Leadership: Voices of Experience. Annapolis, MD: Naval Institute, 1987. p. 3.

[ii] Barnes, John A. John F. Kennedy on Leadership: The Lessons and Legacy of a President. New York [etc.: AMACOM, 2007. p. 217.

 

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Additional Resources –

 

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum online

 

The Speeches of President John F. Kennedy