Take a moment (or more) to pay tribute

The barbecues might be blazin’ this three-day holiday weekend while campers stretch their legs in the hills. Memorial Day Weekend is the traditional shotgun start to summer — but it commemorates a very somber reality.

Unlike the much broader Veterans Day, Memorial Day remembers those who gave their lives in service to their country. They paid the highest price known to mortals — for an ideal that survives them, thanks in no small part to their efforts.

Any holiday weekend refreshes people’s batteries, and frankly, with everyone worn out by COVID-19’s impact and reactions to it, a hot dog, potato salad and maybe an ice-cold beverage will hit the spot. But please reflect on what Memorial Day represents. These quotes might help you.

“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.” — Harry S. Truman

“Words are even more feeble on this Memorial Day, for the sight before us is that of a strong and good nation that stands in silence and remembers those who were loved and who, in return, loved their countrymen enough to die for them.” — Ronald Reagan

“In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.

“I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” — Nathan Hale

“Over all our happy country — over all our Nation spread, Is a band of noble heroes — is our Army of the Dead.” — Will Carleton

“Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and government when it deserves it.” — Mark Twain

“My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” — John F. Kennedy

“It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.” — General George S. Patton

At 3 p.m. tomorrow, in accordance with The National Moment of Remembrance Act, please pause for a moment of silence. This act of American unity will honor the men and women who died in the pursuit of freedom — and peace.