Memorial Day is the day we honor those who fought and died for our country so that we can continue to enjoy the freedoms so many of us take for granted. Our memories are short and, to many, Memorial Day is a day to picnic and celebrate the arrival of summer.

I am awed by "the greatest generation" and their achievements, their heroism and their modesty. I remember from school the sacrifices of those who fought, froze, and died in the "police action" of Korea. I am finally beginning to understand Vietnam and the tragedies experienced there and think many times of our young men and women currently in Afghanistan, Iraq and around the world and the many sacrifices they make each and every day so that we may remain free and safe.

This weekend, there will be thousands of parades, millions of flags will be flown and the picnics and celebrations will go on as usual. Do something different and come out on Monday morning May 28, bring a lawn chair and give thanks to the millions who never gave a thought to the sacrifices that were required.

See you all on Monday morning.

Henry A Goessmann

President, Hicksville Gardens Civic Association

Director, Hicksville Community Council