6,782. The number of military casualties during operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn casualties as confirmed by U.S. Central Command.  http://projects.militarytimes.com/valor

This weekend we celebrate Memorial Day. For many it just means a three-day weekend full of picnics, swimming, and fun.  For those in retail it means, hard work as the stores capitalize on big sales.  But for those who understand the true meaning of “memorial,’ this day honors those who have sacrificed their lives in service for their country.

They are men and women who have dedicated their lives to making the world a better place by protecting the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. They sometimes fight in wars they don’t understand and don’t want. They endure great hardships, both mental and physical. The cost is high and these warriors frequently return with wounds that we can’t see and live with nightmares born from the horrors of war. Sometimes they return in flag-drapped caskets, signifying the ultimate sacrifice. The ones we remember on Memorial Day. Continue reading →