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Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who died in the service of the United States of America. Celebrated on the last Monday in May, this national holiday is often referred to as the unofficial start of summer. However, it is so much more than a three-day weekend and barbecues.

Bravely answering the call of duty, stepping up when called upon, ready and willing to do what is asked of them, these men and women often left their families, jobs and comfortable homes to travel to a far-off place in service of their country. Trading their comfortable homes and lifestyles for a tent, a sleeping bag and, if lucky enough, a cot.

Broken homes, broken bodies, broken minds and even their very lives have been the price that was extracted in the pursuit and protection of our freedoms. Every man, woman and child in this country owes a debt of gratitude to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

This Memorial Day as you barbecue and gather with friends and family, take some time to remember those sacrifices. Take time to honor the men and women who stood up and did their duty when their country called — and paid for it with their lives. Take time to say thank you, we not only recognize your sacrifice but we appreciate you, we honor you, we have not forgotten you.

A heart felt thank you to all the brave men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country.

Betty J. Ramsey is the Publisher of The Charlotte Gazette. She can be reached at Betty.Ramsey@TheCharlotteGazette.com.