Memorial Day is more than a three day weekend.
For those that have lost a loved one in the service, it's a day to mourn, and remember.
This day is for Jesse Mizener, and all the soldiers like him, who never came home.
We are the shoulders for their families to cry on today, and we're the ones that know the pain.
We don't hold a BBQ. We don't have a picnic. We sit at home, and provide comfort for each other, and our friends.
Because one young man died on January 7, 2004, my family has an extended family. We have become friends with his wife, his brother, and his mom. We watch his son grow, and his son has many fathers, even though none of them can replace Jesse. Most of the unit still keeps in touch. And we take care of our family.
Being in contact with his family has brought healing to them, and us. It has helped some in his unit to heal also. I don't know the entire story, and I probably never will, but I know that my husband feels guilt every day because he couldn't bring all of his soldiers home. I also know that Jesse's family goes through a lot every day. Time doesn't heal the wounds, it just hurts a little less.
Please, think of Jesse Mizener today, and all of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. And remember why we have Memorial Day.
PFC Jesse Mizener KIA 7 Jan 2004
Proud daddy.
Jesse and his brother Brian, as kids, and then as adults. Brian is now my family.
