Erie County Clerk Mickey Kearns Encourages Residents To…

HONOR THOSE WHO PAID THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE THIS MEMORIAL DAY

Memorial Day was enacted to memorialize the soldiers who lost their life in the American Civil War and later was expanded to honor the soldiers who bravely served our nation and fought and died in all American wars. These courageous men and women, so different in heritage and background, shared the common bonds and goals of the armed forces – duty and sacrifice.  Far too often, we take for granted the many freedoms we enjoy as American citizens that were paid for with the lives of others.  

The Memorial Day Holiday offers a chance to take a moment and recognize those who are no longer with us, particularly those who have given their lives to our nation while serving in America’s Armed Forces. Since our country’s fight for independence in 1775, almost two million American service members have lost their lives in the line of duty.  Even amid the coronavirus pandemic, servicemen and women continue to fight for our freedoms throughout the world. Memorial Day is a time set aside to honor Americans who have served our country and paid the ultimate sacrifice in protecting our freedoms.

Thankfully, some events are still scheduled across Erie County celebrating the heroism and courage of these men and women who died in the line of duty. Before attending family parties, neighborhood picnics, and other holiday celebrations I ask all Erie County residents to take a moment to pause and honor veterans we have lost. You may consider displaying an American Flag or simply placing a flower at a veteran’s gravesite to offer a special dedication to those who greatly deserve it.

The sacrifice of all our veterans warrants a special remembrance for the loss of our fellow countrymen during wartime. Lee Greenwood appropriately sang, “I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I free. And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.”

At the Erie County Clerk’s Office, we are honored to pay tribute to our veterans 365 days a year through our “Thank-A-Vet” Discount Card Program. This complementary program is a way to recognize veterans in our community for their honorable service.  To learn more about the Clerk’s “Thank-A-Vet” Program please call 858-4737 or visit www.erie.gov/clerk/thankavet.