This past weekend was Memorial weekend. I watched and listened to so many different people talk about the plans they had for the long weekend. It has become a recreational holiday for most.

This past weekend was Memorial weekend. I watched and listened to so many different people talk about the plans they had for the long weekend. It has become a recreational holiday for most.

Until fifteen or so years ago it was the same for me. Since then, I have tried to pay respect to what Memorial weekend really is-an honoring of Fallen Warriors. I wept this year because the same platoon that my son is in lost one of their Warriors, I did not know this young man; but my heart still breaks for the sacrifice he gave to protect so many that won't know him for even respect what he did for the U.S.

There will be no family get togethers for him, no wedding, no road trips to concerts or dates, no more Christmas or birthdays, no holding his first born or eventually first grandchild. I think about my grandfather who came over from Denmark on a ship and fought in WWII before he was a U.S. citizen and my Grandfather on my mothers' side who also fought in WWII.

I have the honor of a long line of serving men in my family-it continues with my son Tyler, my Marine. My dad served, all three of my brothers served and now my son. What an honor! We need to honor those that are alive both past and currently serving.

This country is great because of them! Those that have not left the shore of this country but are serving, still deserve our honor too. Every man and woman in our Armed Forces have put the freedom of going to a movie or on vacation hanging with friends and family on hold to be watchmen for us.

I have watched as so many have disrespected our flag, our Warriors and the way of life that we have. Let's not forget! Honor and respect the people who give us the treasure of living in freedom and safety. To all the Warriors past and present, I thank you!

Sherry Welty

Plains, Montana