Memorial is a day that we remember the men and women who serve and have served in the military. Despite our partisan views, it is one day that we can agree on. Memorial Day was established and named “Memorial Day” in 1967. In 1968, it became a Monday holiday in 1968. Many persons have lost their lives serving in the military and many more have been wounded both physically and emotionally. While freedom is not free, the price for service in the military is priceless.
Today as we honor those who have served, let us remember that according to US government figures, that Operation Iraqi Freedom has resulted in 4421 deaths and 31, 931 wounded in action. The death toll in the Afghanistan war stands at 1,475 with 11, 541 wounded in action. Their families deserve recognition at this time, too. They are also heroes. Family members left behind while a loved one is deployed overseas, raise kids alone, and care of extended family members’ well – being until the family is united again. The WhitesHouse.gov has a form for sending an electronic message to a military family, to be delivered by USO. Click to send a message @ http://1.usa.gov/k5hWBU
NetRoots Nation for the Troops also has a care package program to send packages to the troops. Over the past 4 years, Netroots for the Troops has packed over 800 boxes to send to the troops. In a few weeks, Netroots Nation will again be sending packages to pour troops and you may help by donating here.
Netroots For The Troops is a project of Netroots for the Troops, Inc., a Virginia non-profit corporation. Netroots For The Troops raises money for the assembly, mailing and delivery of care packages to American military in war zones, and to provide assistance to military families in the United States. Netroots For The Troops, Inc. is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization.
Those who are going to Netroots Nation convention in Minneapolis may help by actually packing boxes on Saturday, June 18, 2011.
Whatever you do today, remember to take the time to remember those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom and future.