Arkoma Fire Department

Live a life worthy of their sacrifice.

Memorial Day is more than a long weekend, a barbecue, or a day off work. It is a reminder that freedom is not free.

Every freedom we enjoy was protected by men and women willing to sacrifice everything for something greater than themselves. Americans stood in harm’s way, knowing the cost, and still chose to serve. Some never made it home.

We should never take that lightly.

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”

— John 15:13 ESV

Today, remember the fallen. Pray for their families. Fly the flag proudly. Be grateful. And never forget that the price of freedom has always been paid by courageous men and women willing to stand for something greater than themselves.

Lord,

Today, we pause to remember the men and women who gave their lives in service to this nation. Thank you for their courage, sacrifice, and willingness to stand for something greater than themselves.

Please comfort the families who still carry that loss. Help us live with gratitude, humility, and respect for the freedoms we have been given. May we never take their sacrifice for granted.

Amen.

(This photo captures 8-year-old Christian Golczynski accepting the American flag from his father’s casket.

His father, Marine Staff Sgt. Marcus A. “Marc” Golczynski, was killed in action during his second tour in Iraq, only weeks before he was scheduled to return home to his family in Tennessee.

The photograph, taken by Aaron Thompson, became widely shared and remains a powerful reminder of the human cost of war.)

Responders coming together to meet whatever need presents itself is the whole point. None of us can do this alone. Yesterday was a great example of coordination and community that allowed so many to mourn a loss and pay their respects while making sure our communities were still provided with professional coverage and protection.