Sean Dengler.

With May ending, it is time to remember why the last Monday of the month is a holiday. Memorial Day is a time to remember all those United States military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. While it might be a day off for many, this holiday should mean the most to all Americans.

Every American owes those who gave up their lives to protect the country we all call home. This is the ultimate sacrifice. Protecting this great country is no easy task, and we should all be thankful for those who upend their lives to move across the world and fight for the American ideals. For those who died while in the service, they deserve this day and every day to remember.

While everyone in this country might not get along perfectly with one another, these individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice protected these rights where we can live in a country which allows different thoughts. This is important to each American. On this May day, remember those friends and family members who made the sacrifice. It is the least one can do. Making the trip to the cemetery, silently remembering those who gave up their life for their country or talking with their friends and relatives will be a beneficial use of the day. Any amount of time to honor these individuals is paramount.

These individuals risked everything because they wanted to serve their country. For that, we thank them. The United States of America could not exist without those who are willing to fight for their fellow Americans against the forces of tyranny, fascism, and other anti-democratic values. Take time on Memorial Day to remember those who helped keep us safe. This is what matters.

Sean Dengler is a writer, comedian, farmer, and host of the Pandaring Talk podcast who grew up on a farm between Traer and Dysart. You can reach him at sean.h.dengler@gmail.com.