Remember

In half an hour or so, the first beats of the drums will drift by on the wind. Right now, the throb of the engine of a tow truck fills the street as its operator removes an SUV whose owner, unaware or uncaring of the event about to take place, ignored the no parking signs.

The sidewalk is filling with lawn chairs, the curb with small children excited for the start of the main event. Do the children really understand the reason for the parade, or are they simply hoping to catch some of the candy thrown by members of the local VFW post?

I hope they understand. I hope someone has taken the time to explain to them the sacrifices our service men and women have made through the years, not only to allow us to eat our barbecue in peace, but to help eradicate injustice wherever it may be found. I hope they are taught to honor the dead, to pray for those who are currently serving and to love our country.

They need to be taught, lest the next generation forgets.