I'm sure everyone is looking forward to the upcoming 3-day weekend. I know I am. But with all the traffic on the way to the beach or lake, and all the cookouts and everything else we'll be busy with, it's easy to lose sight of the meaning of Memorial Day. Countless men and women have made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our liberty and make the world a safer place.
Memorial Day is a fitting tribute. There were plenty of situations flying in the Navy when I knew I was lucky to be alive after a harrowing flight (often due to my own mistakes). I was always at peace with the danger because if I were killed, all I'd ask in return is that my sacrifice would not be forgotten. I'm sure that's how almost everyone in the military feels: Just remember.
Remembering fallen heroes is important, but there are many men and women who sadly do not get the recognition and honor they have earned. There are many who have been maimed and wounded badly in our recent conflicts, and they are sent to convelesce and rehabilitate in military hospitals around the country, usually far from their loved ones.
I've wondered how I would cope if I suffered some kind of terrible disability. I've wondered what would make life still worth living. The answer would have to be family and friends, and that's where Fisher House comes in.
Fisher House is a network of lodging facilities near military hospitals available for the loved ones of hospitalized service-members in their time of greatest need. Many families of service-members are not well off, and it can be extraordinarily costly to travel to be by the side of their son, daughter, brother or sister.
Over the past couple years I'm sometimes asked why I don't have any ads on this site. The site gets a modestly healthy amount of traffic, and costs almost nothing to run. A few ads would easily generate a few thousand dollars per year, maybe enough for that silver Boxster S I've got my eyes on.
The real reason I don't have ads is because this site is so much fun. As soon as it becomes about money, it becomes a chore. Plus, with money comes the incentive to hype things or bend the truth in the research. That's not to say I won't sell out in the future, but for now you can help turn my Boxster into something worthwhile. Consider giving a few dollars this weekend to Fisher House. It's a great cause. It's easy to give, the minimum donation is $10, and they won't barrage you with spam or junk mail. I know many of the site's regular readers already have, and I appreciate it.
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Memorial Day Fisher House Drive
By
Brian Burke
published on 5/28/2010
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I just gave 50 bucks.
Thanks for the heads up. Just donated. I have never heard of the program. My grandson needs a transplant and I know how important a place like the Ronald McDonald House is for families. Thanks to all who are serving or have served our great country by putting on the uniform.
I really appreciate the fact that you always give perspective to a great discussion. And in addition to thankfully remembering all of the men and women that have served, a thanks for your personal service shouldn't be forgotten. Thanks for the great site and the peace and freedom to enjoy it.