Freedom Isn’t Free

Sen. Deb Fischer

Memorial Day is a special time to honor our nation’s servicemen and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice fighting for the freedom we enjoy today.

Nebraskans will soon gather with family and friends in observance of this important holiday. From backyard barbeques and parades to ceremonies at the final resting places of the fallen, we must show our gratitude and remember the meaning of Memorial Day.

As President Ronald Reagan said on Memorial Day in 1983, “every time we hear, watch, or read the news, we are reminded that liberty is a rare commodity in this world.”

The Memorial Day tradition originated as “Decoration Day.” It was established as a way for Americans to honor the fallen soldiers of the Civil War by placing flowers on their graves. The Civil War saw more casualties than any other conflict in our country’s history. But as new conflicts arose in the years since, Memorial Day became a national observance where all Americans honor the brave souls who died while serving our nation.

For some Nebraskans, the Memorial Day tradition includes traveling across the state to visit Fort McPherson National Cemetery near Maxwell and Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance. There, the white headstones of the fallen lie peacefully representing generations of Nebraska’s military service members. The cemetery is a place of reverence where Nebraskans can reflect on the selfless sacrifice of their loved ones who died in service to their country. Family members mourn the loss of a beloved child, a loving parent, or a committed spouse. But through their sacrifice, we are able to reflect more fully on their contributions to protecting our freedom.

This Memorial Day, we are also reminded of those who currently serve our great nation. Over the past two years, my staff has been preserving Nebraska’s proud history of military service as part of the Veterans History Project – an ongoing initiative in conjunction with the Library of Congress. Many of the veterans interviewed have served in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the surrounding countries. One Nebraska soldier served in the U.S. Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom and dislocated his shoulder while rescuing a vehicle from insurgent fire. Another was awarded the Purple Heart for his actions in Afghanistan, where he took shrapnel from a rocket during a village patrol. We are so grateful for the many sacrifices these soldiers, and others like them, have made on our behalf. This Memorial Day, let us reflect on why they fight and who they have left behind. 

Over the next week, I encourage all Nebraskans to take some time and reflect on the countless military service members who have died to protect our freedom. Lay a flower on a grave, thank a veteran, or simply observe a moment of silence in honor of the fallen. I also hope you will consider how truly lucky we are to call the greatest nation on Earth home.

I wish all Nebraskans a safe and happy Memorial Day. Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.