Monday we celebrated Memorial Day. Often referred to as the unofficial start of summer this special day is observed the last Monday in May. After a long cold winter and spring it is understandable that a three day weekend is often spent barbequing, out on the lake or in the pool visiting family and friends. However, Memorial Day is so much more than a three-day weekend and barbecues.

A national holiday, Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who died in the service of the United States of America. A day meant to honor the individuals who so bravely answered the call of duty, stepped up when they were called upon and were ready and willing to do what was asked of them and paying the ultimate sacrifice with their very lives.

Broken homes, broken bodies, broken minds and their 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.

Although Memorial Day has past I encourage you to 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 men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country.

Betty Ramsey is the Publisher of The Charlotte Gazette. Her email address is Betty. Ramsey@TheCharlotteGazette.com.