By Fire Chief Kash ChristopherMLN-Chief2dec25-14

On Monday, the Summer Season kicks off.  It’s also the beginning of the “101 Critical Days of Summer”.  However, this Monday is also “Memorial Day”, a day for remembering the those who gave their life while serving this great Nation.

Throughout our history, the Armed Forces have engaged in battles, and unfortunately, some lost their lives.  From the streets of Fallujah, Iraq, the Kunar Province in Afghanistan, Ap Bia Mountain in the A Shau Valley, South Vietnam, and the Inchon Landing in South Korea, American military men and women have fought with courage and honor to ensure we are the “Guardians of Freedom”.  Not forgotten are our fallen heroes from WWII.

Shortly before he died in 2010, Cleveland Indians Hall of Fame Pitcher Bob Feller did an interview for the MLB Network.  In 1941 at the age of 22 he was at the height of his pitching powers and according to many observers, he was on his way to becoming the greatest of all time.  However, the events of December 7 would alter his career and a few days later he volunteered for the U.S. Navy, despite being exempt from service.  He was asked by Bob Costas if he had any regret on missing all that time.  Feller, without hesitation, said, “NO!  It was a war we had to win.”  That’s how they “rolled” back then and God bless them.  Folks, our WWII veterans are our most treasured generation, and we should take time to thank them for their service.

This Monday at 7:45 a.m., Police Chief Troy Tanner and I will lay a wreath at Veterans Park to honor those who paid the “ultimate price”.  At 9:30 a.m., I will be attending a breakfast at the Town Square Buffet at the Eureka to honor our surviving WWII Veterans.  I encourage you to join me there and thank these men and women. Tickets are $15 and you may purchase them at the Veterans Center, 840 Hafen Lane.  It is no charge for those who served in WWII.

This Monday, May 25, as we enjoy our day off, I ask that you pause and remember our fallen heroes.  It is they who have allowed us to enjoy the freedom we have today.