There are no words to describe the sacrifice so many have made.
In our hearts, we know their offering was not lightly given.
Most went, not because they were told to, but for deeply personal reasons; perhaps because they chose to do their part, to do what needed to be done for the sake of others.
We who made it home remember all too clearly, all of it.
The loss of their presence among us is greater still, and we remember each one.
The memorial is fifty miles from here;
it's been there for thirty years.
Someday, I'll go.