For every veteran who put on our nation’s uniform and served, Memorial Day is solemn and personal. 

While I lost both of my legs in combat, thankfully I was able to come home to my family. Many of my friends were not as fortunate. They signed up to serve with no aspirations of great fame or wealth, they raised their right hand to defend the Constitution, and they gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. And they’ve inspired me everyday. 

They’re the reason I wear three metal cuffs, each engraved with  names of fallen brothers, everywhere I go. I carry their sacrifice with me, and I try my hardest to live in a way that would make them proud. 

And on Memorial Day, I think of their wisdom and what they might say to us if they were here today:

I believe Staff Sgt. Eric Trueblood (KIA 03/10/2011) would remind us that we are not measured by what we do when things are easy; we’re measured when what we face seems impossible. 

Staff Sgt. David Day (KIA 04/24/2011) would tell us that the tougher the times, the tougher the people.

Sgt. Justin Allen (KIA 07/18/2010) was never one to feel sorry for himself, so I believe he would take on the challenge with everything he’s got, not once complaining.?

Sgt. Anibal Santiago (KIA 07/18/2010) would probably challenge everybody—in language that isn’t fit to print—to have the courage to get out and live their lives.

And I believe Senior Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Craig Vickers (KIA 08/06/2011) would remind us—in excruciating detail—that, no matter what we do, every minute still has sixty seconds, each hour still has sixty minutes and each day is still going to take twenty-four of those. Don’t let time pass by trying to evade life’s challenges.

On this Memorial Day weekend, before going to BBQs or parties, take a moment to reflect on who we owe this day to. Reflect on the servicemembers who ran into danger to protect the freedoms we enjoy each and every day living under fifty stars and thirteen red and white strips. 

May we never forget their sacrifice.