Memorial Day People

Posted by on May 31, 2011 in Blog | 0 comments

Memorial Day is a federal holiday for honoring soldiers who died in military service. This day is observed on the last Monday of May.  Over 4600 American military men and women have died so far in the War on Terrorism in these two operations: 2001 Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) and the 2003 Operation Iraqi Freedom (Iraq).  Of these fatalities, 2.4% were women who make up 16% of the department of defense force.  Over 4500 deaths have been men who comprise 97.6% of the force.

These stats represent real people whose departure from this world has a heart wrenching impact on those close.  Appreciation, gratitude and sadness is felt from people across the country for these men and women, on this day.

Memorial Day was initially known as Decoration Day to honor both Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the American Civil War.  After World War I, this day commemorated all our fallen soldiers who have died in all wars.  Decoration Day was changed to Memorial Day in memory and honor of those who gave their lives fighting for a common cause.  This total so far is over 340,000 people.  Of this total is William Newman.

Airman William Newman
12/8/1983 – 6/7/2007
In remembrance of our son, William Newman, who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.  He was only 23 years old when died serving as an Air Force EOD technician.  William was part of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team stationed at Hickman Air Force Base in Hawaii.  He was killed while disarming an IED(improvised explosive device) in Balad, Iraq.  One year later the Hickman Air Force Base EOD facility was dedicated and named in his honor.  Thank you for your service and dedication to our great country.  We miss you and love you so much.
Thank you to all the Veterans, for all those currently serving in our military, and for those who have lost their lives. Words cannot express our gratitude and appreciation. – Angela Newman, founder of Pink Ladders.

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