Thank you.

Take this moment, between the cookouts and the laughs, between the shopping sales, between the movie marathons, to pause. Remember why we take today to celebrate. It isn't because we need another day to have a holiday. It's not for a chance to take off work. Though we might partake in these things, that's not the purpose, and all of us know it. Today, we set aside our daily lives to remember those we've loved, and those we've lost. Today, we reflect on the millions of souls- of our brothers and sisters, husbands and wives, fathers and mothers- who are no longer with us on this Earth so that we can stand together with our security and our freedom. Today, our brothers and sisters' sacrifices are not only remembered, but honored.

Today, we come together, from all backgrounds, all colors, all ages, to remember we are all united as Americans. Today, we stand as one. Every impossible dream, every incredible achievement, every record shattered: today, we remember that all of these we stand behind, because they are part of what it means to be an American. Every heartbteaking failure, every bombing, every mother and father answering their door to full-suited, grim - faced servicemen- we remember that all of these we stand behind, because they are part of what it means to be an American.
Many days I've had to endure watching my fellow peers begrudgingly drag to their feet, mumble apathetically, then slump back down to their chairs. Some could not even be bothered to stand. For all who have had this attitude, now is your chance. Take a moment, put your hand on your heart, and say this promise as you mean it, and as it deserves to be said.

I pledge allegiance,
to the flag,
of the United States of America.
And to the republic,
for which it stands,
one nation,
under God,
indivisible,
with liberty and justice for all.

Today, remember who you are. Remember the sacrifice,  blood, sweat,  and tears that have made and continues to make this nation the great land it is today. Take a moment to stop and thank someone who has served our country: a handshake, a call, an email, a prayer - do something to show your gratitude and to encourage them. Both my father and my grandfather have served in the military, and to them, I say thanks. Remember who we are. We are American. This truly is the land of the free, and the home of the brave.