Memorial Day was established on May 30, 1868, to commemorate the death of the soldiers who perished in the American Civil War. Soon it grew into the recognition of all subsequent wars. It differs from Veteran’s Day in that it specifically recognizes all American military personnel who died as a result of service to our nation. It has been my privilege to serve our veterans as a chaplain in the VA medical system. I have heard their stories. All combat veterans have heavy hearts. Their sadness come from differing places and sometimes multiple events. Some lost close comrades, some lost innocents, some are haunted by the taking of human life, some such as Vietnam veterans, were shamed and humiliated on their return home. This might also be aggravated by a life altering physical wound. When Afghanistan was turned over to the Taliban, I sat with a veteran watching it on TV. He was a Vietnam veteran. Tears streamed down his face as he watched something very much like the fall of Saigon. He said to me, “When we lost in Vietnam, I thought at least we learned a lesson. I guess we didn’t.” This is an example of the “heaviness.” It is why our Veterans are so very passionate about our nation and its welfare. They know and have experienced the cost firsthand! There is a growing voice in our nation condemning it as evil, racist and bigoted from its founding up to today, a terrible place that oppresses the poor and disadvantaged. And yet, thousands and thousands of people from all over the world are rushing across our southern border. Why? Why come to someplace worse than where they left. I do not approve of the way this is taking place. The rule of law is essential for the stability and prosperity of any nation. But for those coming in illegally, it is a dream coming true, the American dream they have only heard about or watched in movies from a far. They want what we have and take for granted. This “dream” is what our service men and women have sacrificed their lives for. Let us be grateful, let us remember them and pray for them and their families. Yours in Christ our Lord, Fr. Sid.