We’ve all heard the phrase “Freedom isn’t free.” While this is something we should think about year-round, that expression intensifies in meaning the last weekend in May each year.

Tomorrow, as we all gather for the parade or a family cookout, let’s take some time to reflect and think about those who, with their bravery and sacrifices, ensure we truly remain a free nation.

Throughout our country’s past, we have been blessed to have men and women who stand to defend the values America was founded on and will defend those with their lives.

While we will celebrate those who have served on Monday, the days leading up to Memorial Day are special for Lawrence County. The events throughout the weekend provide us an outlet to come together as families, communities and as a county to honor those servicemen and women.

Those events began Thursday with the annual Navy Night ceremony.

Friday, several events took place: Fireworks at the Ironton riverfront followed by the lighting of the new Ro-Na Theatre marquee.

The lighting of the marquee is such a positive step for the city and the efforts of those charged with reviving one of the many treasures in town should be commended.

Today at 2 p.m., the annual Veterans Memorial Service at Woodland Cemetery takes place. Later in the evening, fans will have a chance to honor Lawrence County native and Country Music Hall of Fame inductee Bobby Bare at a concert at the Ro-Na.

Monday caps off the weekend with the 146th annual Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day Parade.

Many thanks should go to all those involved in making these events throughout the Memorial Day weekend so special.

Lawrence County’s sons and daughters have always answered the call in every war our great nation has fought, rising to the challenge to do what is needed.

Regardless of the location of the war or conflict that threatened America or peace throughout the world, America’s soldiers have always been there when they were needed.

It is hard for those of us who have not been in the military to envision what those who served faced.

Unfortunately, I know that I will never be able to repay the debt I owe to those who served, but from the bottom of my heart I want to say: Thank you for all you have done for me, my family and my country.

 

Josh Morrison is the general manager at The Tribune. To reach him, call 740-532-1441 ext. 16 or by email at josh.morrison@irontontribune.com.