To the editor:

Memorial Day is normally a day of remembrance of those we will never see again, those who “gave the last full measure.” There is also pride in those men and women who cared so much for their countrymen.

As a veteran, it saddens me that so many of the people these heroes died to protect do not even know why we celebrate the day. Yesterday in Suffolk I heard well-meaning citizens thanking veterans for their service on this day. Memorial Day is the day to remember those we can no longer thank.

Yesterday in Afghanistan another name was added to the list of those we cannot thank. There are more than 1.3 million names on that list. Most names came from wars our nation has fought. Many come from conflicts you have never heard of. Even more come from the accidents and mishaps that come with military service.

Each of these warriors died for something bigger than himself or hersel. They died for a cause worth dying for.

If “No one has greater love than this, that someone would lay down his life for his friends,” what does it say about those who have laid down their life for their countrymen?

In memory of those I can no longer thank.

Chris Dove

Suffolk