Well, today’s Memorial Day… most of us know it as a day off from work/school, a time to go to the beach or a picnic. Most of us also know it’s also a time to honor those who fell in battle during times of war, as well as to remember those who serve on foreign shores for our defense and protection at this very moment. Our country is engaged in a war at this time… a long, protracted effort against terrorism throughout various places on the globe. It is very fitting that we remember what these finely trained and dedicated men and women do, so that we may continue to enjoy the freedoms and normal lives we often take for granted.
Hawaii has contributed its share of young heros, who participated in our nation’s battles and wars from the time the islands became a territory, over a hundred years ago. There were some who actually were soldiers during WWI (the memorial to which, is the unused, aging Natatorium in Waikiki). There were many who served in the famous 442 RCT/100 Bat during WWII…with the unheard of casualty rate of 314% over a 2 year period… 14,000 AJA’s were actually cycled through the unit during that time, to maintain its 4,000 personnel strength! The locally based 25th Inf Div (Tropic Lightning) was one of the first units on the ground during the Korean Conflict, fought in Vietnam, and most recently, has been deploying to both Afganistan and Iraq.
The purpose of memorials is to prevent us from forgetting important things. In the beautiful paradise of Hawaii, the sacrifice of war is an easy thing to forget. Yet, the reminders of such service surround us, if you really look. My wife and I both have uncles who saw combat service in Europe during WWII, one in the 442nd , the other in the 100th. My father-in-law was called back to duty during the Korean Conflict and eventually retired as a Sergeant Major in the Army. My wife’s brother, myself and Pastor Nando are Vietnam-era vets… PN actually served in combat in Vietnam. And from our own ministry, both Sempai Wes and Kohai Jeff returned from service in Iraq over the past year.
In the same way that the Lord made such a sacrifice to give each of us eternal salvation, let’s not forget all of these young men and women who continue to sacrifice of good times spent in safety with friends and family to place their lives and limbs on the line… for each of us. Please take some time to offer a prayer for our soldiers, past and present.