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BY FORMER GOVERNOR LINDA LINGLE – Memorial Day is a time when we honor and remember the service men and women who sacrificed their lives for our country, and our freedom. We honor their memory by reflecting on the blessings of liberty that they have upheld on our behalf.
Each Soldier, Sailor, Airmen, Marine, Reservist and member of the Coast Guard and National Guard took an oath to defend America. For fulfilling this oath with courage, decency and selflessness, and epitomizing our country’s very best qualities through their valiant efforts, we are forever grateful.
Memorial Day gives the citizens of our nation the opportunity to ensure that our fallen heroes’ sacrifices are never forgotten. By demonstrating our respect and gratitude for their personal courage, love of country and dedication to duty, we perpetuate their legacy.
We must also demonstrate to the families of our fallen soldiers, that we are a nation of gratitude. We recognize that these military members and their loved ones have also made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and their fellow Americans.
Therefore, whether it is visiting a veteran or their family, attending a parade, or simply flying an American flag, Memorial Day is a time when our citizens, in their own ways, pay homage for our fellow Americans’ sacrifices.
In addition to these observances, I strongly encourage the people of Hawaii and across the nation to join their fellow Americans in observing the National Moment of Remembrance. At 3:00 p.m. HST, all Americans, alone or with family and friends, pause in an act of national unity for a duration of one minute to honor those who died in service to the United States. By participating in this thoughtful exercise, we perpetuate the values and the meaning of this important day.
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