Guest editorial: What Memorial Day means to me

Memorial Day is one of the year's most important days – not a holiday, but a day to remember, to be thankful and to remind ourselves that freedom is not free. It's a day to reflect on the blessings of liberty and the debt we owe to those who defended it with their lives. It's a reminder that freedom is earned through the blood, sweat and tears of generations past and present. Each year, the end of May brings my mind back to the scorching sands of Iraq, where I served two combat tours with my brothers in arms. The memories are vivid and remind me of the stark reality of war. Yet, amid the chaos and uncertainty, there was a sense of duty, both to our country and our brothers. There was a commitment to protecting ourselves and our country's freedoms. At funeral services for the fallen, I've seen the empty seats with a rose, flag, single candle and the empty inverted drinking glass on the table. I've looked into the eyes of a fallen hero's loved one and seen the immense pain that never truly fades, lingering with the missed memories together. For me, Memorial Day is a poignant reminder of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It's a day to honor the brave men and women who didn't make it home, whose lives were cut short in service to their country. It's a solemn occasion, filled with sorrow and gratitude, as we pay tribute to their selflessness and unwavering courage. As I remember the importance and honor of our fallen comrades, I am humbled by their sacrifice. I am reminded of the bonds forged in battle and the unbreakable spirit of the American soldier. But above all, I am reminded of the families left behind, who carry the burden of loss with grace and dignity. To the Placer County Gold Star families: I wilt with your loss. It is because of your daughter, sister, husband, father, brother or friend that I am able to kiss my children goodnight. I am eternally grateful, and I will never forget. On this Memorial Day, let us be determined to honor the fallen, to remember their sacrifice, and to cherish the freedoms they fought for and died for. It is because of our fallen heroes that we can live free, with liberty, and continue the pursuit of happiness. Despite all of our differences, let this solemn day remind us that we live under a flag that unites us all. Nick Busse served in the US Army for 13 years, serving two tours of combat duty in Iraq. He is the founder of the Changing Cadence Foundation, which is dedicated to enhancing the lives of veterans, aiming to foster their overall wellbeing and facilitate life transformations. He lives in Roseville with his wife and four children, and is a candidate for Roseville City Council.