Barbie Perkins-Cooper, Author

The weekend is here — Memorial Day Weekend, to some it is the beginning of the hot summer season. To others, Memorial Day Weekend is a time to reflect, to remember those who fought for our freedom, gave their lives and to remember them and what they believed in.

As the proud wife of a Vietnam Veteran, Memorial Day weekend is bitter-sweet. We were one of the fortunate couples of the Vietnam conflict. Why? Simple. My husband came home — a totally different man — fearful, easy to lose his temper and to be defensive. For me, the man I married is still over there — his innocent, trusting ways never returned. So, we celebrate Memorial Day  weekend – remembering the young, carefree soldier who returned as a soldier ready to forget Vietnam because, “It don’t mean nothing, man…”

As the wife, I cannot imagine what goes on in a war zone. All I can do is show him, and the other veterans I meet, how appreciative and thankful I am that the veterans are safe in America.

To all the families who have lost loved ones in war zones, I say Happy Memorial Day. Please remember the good times. The pride the soldier felt to be serving his, or her, country. Let us never forget those who lost their lives to war, and let us  be thankful that we are the United States of America. A nation where freedom reigns. The cost we pay is unbearable, especially when we lose a loved one. May we remember them, taking the time to say thank you, to fly an American flag, and to take at least a moment to give thanks and to pray that we are proud to be American. Happy Memorial Day to all. While you enjoy your grilled burgers, family times, beach trips and overall fun, please remember Memorial Day Weekend is not the celebration of the beginning of summertime…it is a time to reflect and remember those who can no longer celebrate. May God bless us, especially on Memorial Day Weekend.