---

“Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” — John 15:13 (NKJV)

Today, on Memorial Day, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. These fallen heroes gave their lives so that we might live in freedom. Their courage, devotion, and selflessness echo the love of Christ—a love that is willing to lay down everything for the good of others.

As a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003/2004, I carry the weight of this day in a very personal way. I remember the faces, the voices, the laughs shared, and the silence left behind. I know all too well the pain of losing a brother in arms—the hollow ache that never quite goes away. And so today, I extend my deepest condolences to all those who have lost loved ones in combat. Your grief is sacred, your tears are seen, and your sacrifice is honored.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

Let us not only remember their sacrifice but also live in a way that honors it. Let us strive to be a nation worthy of their blood and a people marked by gratitude, unity, and compassion. Freedom is not free—it has been bought with a price. And behind every flag-draped coffin is a family who gave up everything so that others could have something.

This Memorial Day, may we turn our hearts to Heaven, asking God to comfort the grieving, strengthen our nation, and remind us of the hope we have in Him. Let us never forget that the greatest freedom we possess—eternal life—was also bought with blood: the precious blood of Jesus Christ.

“The memory of the righteous is blessed…” — Proverbs 10:7 (NKJV)

To our fallen brothers and sisters in arms: we remember you, we honor you, and we thank you. Your legacy lives on in our hearts and in the freedoms we cherish each day.

Until we meet again—rest in peace, warriors. We’ll carry the torch from here.