Memorial Day Message From ILN Co-Founder Clifton Hatfield

As we roll into the Memorial Day weekend preparing for BBQs and family get-togethers, it’s so easy to forget why this day of memory was established. It originated after the Civil War and, by the 20th century, it was extended to remember all Americans who died in the military service.

Although this time is marked as a period of remembering those who have fallen while serving our country, it is still a time to celebrate the acts of dedication and heroism our men and women made with the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom of our country.

Taking time away from our daily lives to be with our friends and family on this long weekend is just one blessing given to us in this country. So, please take time to remember those who gave it all for their fellow Americans and most importantly, WHY they did it. They believed in our God-given rights as humans to love one another, grow stronger as a nation, and to prosper in this world. Their deaths will not be in vain.

I served with my fellow soldiers in Troop B 2-107th Cavalry from 2001 - 2006. NATO-KFOR Forces in Kosovo from 2004 - 2005. Hooah. - SPC Clifton Hatfield