¶ In Memoriam

I don't get very personal on this site too often, but today is one of those days.

Today is Memorial Day here in the States, a day which we set aside to remember the soldiers that have paid the ultimate price for the freedoms we enjoy. Many of us celebrate by enjoying those very freedoms, knowing that we are safe from threat.

This Memorial Day I find myself thinking not only of fallen soldiers, but also those who currently serve. Even more specifically, I find myself thinking of those serving in South Dakota.

See, my hometown of Pierre, South Dakota is expecting to endure a flood for the first time in 59 years. A flood that will likely be worse than the one in 1952. The most shocking part is that a flood was never supposed to happen again, as Pierre is home to the world's second-largest rolled-earth dam. I guess this just goes to show that mankind cannot control the forces of nature.

I have many friends who will be affected by this flood. My parents are affected by this flood. Thankfully, my parents will have their home — which resides a hundred yards from the river — evacuated by the end of the day. The Army National Guard is building a levee in front of their house. I hope it holds.

It is a very real possibility that the home I grew up in will be greatly damaged, perhaps irrevocably.

So yes, I find myself thinking today of those who selflessly defend our country and serve our citizens. And I thank them from the bottom of my heart.