Much ink and many digital bits have been expended in arguments over our country's foreign policy. Of course, it is the role of our leaders - whom we elect for that very purpose - to act in the best interest of our country within the perspective of the overall good for all the nations on earth. We can certainly argue on the source of blame - and effect change as appropriate - in how we deal with foreign powers and the response of our leaders in doing so. One thing we certainly cannot do, however, is place blame upon those tasked to carry out that policy, our soldiers.

Memorial Day is a day especially set aside, not for barbeques and shopping sales, but as a day to remember that there are men and women who have died so that you and I are able to live with greater security, justice, and peace. May these fallen soldiers rest in peace. We owe them both a debt of gratitude and our prayers.
Our soldiers and those who preserve our freedom and peace are deserving of our honor, for they put their lives on the line so that others can live, be more free, and experience abundance. None of us can fail to appreciate the weight that some carry so that we can live well, freely, and comfortably. Freedom is not free; it is costly.
War remains controversial - as it should, given the money and energy we continue to expend on it, despite the many other avenues also available for responding to belligerent powers. But soldiers do not create the politics they are sent to address. They are simply told that there is a danger to be addressed, an injustice to be ended, and so they go.
Patriotism - the love of one’s country - is related to the fourth commandment. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) indicates: "It is the duty of citizens to contribute to the good of society in a spirit of truth, justice, solidarity and freedom. The love and service of one’s country follow from the the duty of gratitude and belong to the order of charity" (CCC 2239).
Scripture hints at this support for the good of a nation and its people. While John the Baptist was baptizing in the Jordan Roman soldiers, fighters for the empire that oppressed Israel, approached him and asked: “'And what is it that we should do?' He told them, 'Do not practice extortion, do not falsely accuse anyone, and be satisfied with your wages'”  (Lk. 3:14). Instead of telling them to put down their arms in defiance of their superiors the Baptist advised them to be the best soldiers that they could be, to carry out their duties in a spirit of charity and fairness.

Memorial Day: the word “memorial” comes from the Latin word memorare, a command form of the verb “to remember” So this Memorial Day, in the midst of the celebrations and the anticipation of summer, take a moment to remember. Keep in your mind and heart the real reason we hold this day: to honor the sacrifices of men and women that, in their way, reflect the sacrifice of our Savior Jesus - losing their lives so that we can gain ours. And for that we are to give humble thanks.