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Gold Star Wife’s Request for Memorial Day

Posted on May 30, 2022 by Published by

Gold Star Wife’s Request for Memorial Day

12 years ago this November I learned what a gold star family member was. Truth is, I never knew the pain and the suffering behind what these families went through, until I, myself, was handed a folded flag that draped over my husbands casket. 

November 10, 2010 I became the widow of US Marine Lance Corporal James Stack. On that day, LCPL James Stack gave the ultimate sacrifice, in Sangin, Afghanistan. He left behind me and my daughter, Mikayla, who was one at the time.

At every Gold Star family’s house, there is an empty seat at the dinner table. There is a laugh and love that is missing. There is a hole that will never be filled. These men and woman, our Nation’s Fallen Heroes, have given the ultimate sacrifice. 

I want you to think of a wife or husband going to bed while staring at an empty pillow; a child growing up, and all they know or remember about their mom or dad are through photos & memories; a mother and father never being able to see the incredible child they raised and the future their child was building for themselves, all because of our Nations heroes. 

We, as a Nation, have the ability to breathe this fresh air, hug our loved ones, fly the American Flag on our porch as a proud American – because of these brave men and woman.

On Memorial Day, my one request is this…

When you view the names and faces of these fallen men and women at Memorial Park located in Arlington Heights or at a memorial near you, I challenge you to approach with a heart of recognition and gratitude and say, “thank you.”  Remember why you get to live in this great and free nation and the great price of that freedom.

When gathering with your friends and family to enjoy your picnic or barbeque, take the time to teach your children and others about the true meaning behind this day, and to remember our fallen heroes and their families.

And always remember,  FREEDOM IS NOT FREE. 

-Katie Stack, Gold Star wife of LCpl James Bray Stack, USMC, KIA, Afghanistan Nov 10, 2010

Memorial Day Prayer,

Gracious God, On this Memorial Day, we pray for those who courageously laid down their lives for the cause of freedom. May the examples of their sacrifice inspire in us the selfless love of Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.

Bless the families of our fallen troops, and fill their homes and their lives with Your strength and peace.

In union with people of goodwill of every nation, embolden us to answer the call to work for peace and justice, and thus, seek an end to violence and conflict around the globe.

We ask this through your name.

~ Author Unknown

Source: Jesuitresource.com

 

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