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seem enough for that kind of service.

Allow me a moment to remember a specific veteran — Terry Geiling. For years, he would give me a call around the first of May to make sure I would be at the Memorial ceremony at Gold Star Manor — the home for parents of those who died in service of their country, and more recently those who have served, period. Terry was the CEO there after a distinguished

military career, and used his leadership skills to rebuild the facility into the jewel that it was meant to be.

He retired in 2020. But Terry never really retired. He took on the presidency at Fisher House of Southern California — a home for families of veterans being treated at Veterans Medical Centers, including one in Long Beach.

Terry didn't die in battle, but he did serve until he died last July. This is his Memorial Day.

Many have expanded the meaning of Memorial Day to include the passing

of beloved family members, good friends, even passing acquaintances. There will be flowers placed on graves in cemeteries across the country, and that's a good thing — remembering those who came before us is a key to our sense of self, and can be healing.

But I do think it is important that this day was set aside for those who served in the military. As much as we might wish to live in a world where an armed defense of our way of life wasn't necessary, we aren't there yet.

Kudos to those men and

women willing to step up and get the job done.

Jesus said, “No one has greater love than this, to lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13) Of course, He did that very thing just a little later.

When people put on the uniform — Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, even Space Force — they are signaling their willingness to lay down their lives for their country — their friends. You might think it sounds trite, but it is meant sincerely.

Thank you for your service, and your sacrifice.

Happy Memorial Day.