“It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
Memorial Day 2016 in remembrance of those who have fallen while serving.
Today I took the time to reflect on some of the people that I have known directly, or indirectly who have given their lives for this country. The ultimate sacrifice of a warrior is to die for one's country so that others may live. To those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. THANK YOU.
I have always wanted to spend Memorial Day with those that have fought before me to defend freedom and liberty. Marietta National Cemetery(MNC) is one of the oldest at 150 years old, in the nation. I learned so much about MNC, such as that it was originally chosen to be the site of the Confederate Capitol, but the owner, turned down the request, citing that he was going to put the land, "for a better purpose."
A granite memorial arch at the cemetery gate is inscribed: "Here rest the remains of 10,312 Officers and Soldiers who died in defense of the Union 1861-1865."
The white marble and concrete rostrum, 37 feet by 22 feet, with a metal roof was constructed in April 1940. The structure is of a classic architectural design and resembles a Greek temple of the Acropolis.
While walking around, I came across SSGT Edward Rudolph's marker and noticed that this airman soldier must have seen so much in his 88 years of life. I wonder what his legacy is? I wonder if his children, grandchildren, maybe even great-grandchildren, looked at him as a hero?
One of the other things that I was reminded of, is that service members who have been discharged under honorable conditions are authorized internment in a National Cemetery. Not only that, but their spouses can share the plot as well. What I didn't consider was how spouses are listed.
As shown, the spouse is identified on the back of the marker as well. Service members who are interested in being interred, need to make reservations with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Many National Cemeteries are already at capacity for reservations. So the sooner that a service member or spouse makes the reservation, the better.
I hope you enjoyed a little piece of my day and that you took time to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
LD
For more information on National Cemeteries, visit: The National Cemetery Administration
