A member of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, also known as The Old Guard, places flags in front of each headstone for "Flags-In" at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington on Thursday to honor the nation's fallen military heroes ahead of Memorial Day. Associated Press

Andrew Harnik

To many Americans, Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial beginning of summer. We attend parades, go for a swim or have cookouts with friends and family.

While the festivities always are highly anticipated, it’s important to step back and remember what, or rather who, we’re celebrating the last Monday in May each year.

Memorial Day is meant to honor those who have lost their lives serving our country. It is a time to reflect on their sacrifice and the loss felt by their families.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs published an "America’s Wars" report in May 2021 that estimated the number of fallen troops who died in battle from 1775 to 1991 was 651,031. Since then, that number obviously has grown.

There is no way any of us could ever repay the debt we owe to the brave individuals who served and paid the ultimate price to protect our freedoms. On Memorial Day, it’s important they actually be remembered.

To those families who are remembering loved ones this Memorial Day, we express how eternally grateful we are, even as we know that it in no way makes up for the grief you feel.

To all those active duty men and women, we thank you for your service. Our hearts and prayers are with you every day of the year.

We at the Butler Eagle wish everyone a safe Memorial Day.

— CM