As we head into this Memorial Day weekend, please remember what this long weekend marks. As well earned as any long weekend is, this holiday is not just about rest or any single event or the unofficial kickoff to summer.

The holiday, this holy day, is marked in honor of something greater than many of us have a chance to witness in our lives.We remember those who have fallen in service to our country and their fellow citizens, in defense of freedom and the chance of liberation, as do others around the world on the many Memorial and Remembrance Days.

We remember men and women of all colors, faiths, origins, some of whose names we might never know. Some gave their service voluntarily, while others were conscripted. All answered the call, and what we remember this weekend is that they made the ultimate sacrifice for something larger than themselves, on behalf of so many they never knew, who never knew them. At some point during the weekend, we might pause and remember the deliverance of all they had, and mark in whatever way we can their collective last breath.