WHEN I WAS growing up, Memorial Day was a really important holiday in our family. All three of my older brothers served in the military, and they were our beloved reminders of millions of brave men and women who gave their lives for our country. When you grow up with family members who have served, and you’re lucky enough to see everyone come home safely, Memorial Day has special meaning. You understand what others have lost — and you honor even more the sacrifice and the service of those who fight for our country and all those who love them.
My oldest brother, Don Reed, completed 288 combat missions in Vietnam. John was posted to North Africa. The youngest, David, stayed stateside, where he trained as an emergency medic. We were proud of them — proud, and always aware of what military commitment meant.
