The American society reaches its closest to uniting on Memorial Day. This is a day where democrats and republicans put aside their differences and unite as patriots. It is the day where everyone shares the common goal for peace; and where everyone is in a deep understanding of what it truly means to be a citizen of this great nation.
Memorial Day is the day we pay homage to and genuinely appreciate those who have struggled to ensure our freedom and defend our nation against those seeking to cause harm. This is all due to the tremendous sacrifice these great men and women in duty make.
As Arab Americans, we have come to deeply understand the meaning of Memorial Day. Today, we are living the dream that our soldiers fought and died for. It is because of them we have the freedom to live and pursue our dreams in the United States of America. Because of their sacrifice, we can walk with our head held high and be proud to say that we are Arab Americans.
To be a soldier is to have the highest form of patriotism. To die as a soldier is to have the greatest form of loyalty to ones country. Whether civilian or armed forces casualties, we stand united, not just on this holiday, but every day to pay our respects to those who have committed their life to this nation.
In the future, we pray that Memorial Day will not only have commemorated the fallen soldiers and civilians but will commemorate and establish a founding base for freedom and justice for all humanity.
We will not only have Memorial Day to show our patriotism but we will also have a global peace day, where all walks of life put their bitter past and differences in their shadow and work for their true meaning of life.
The Lebanese American Heritage Club would like to extend its appreciation to those who give of themselves for this nation. Today, and every day, we honor you and honor the memory of those who have given their lives to this great country. God bless you all.