As Memorial Day weekend approaches, many of us look forward to sunshine, backyard barbecues, and the unofficial start of summer. It’s a time when families gather, road trips are planned, and grills are fired up. 

While we enjoy the excitement of a long holiday weekend, it's essential to pause and consider what this national holiday truly represents. Memorial Day is not just another Monday off—it’s a solemn day of remembrance. A day dedicated to honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice: the men and women who fought and died in service to our country. 

Throughout our nation’s history, more than 1.3 million American service members have given their lives in defense of our freedoms. The numbers are staggering and sobering: approximately 116,000 in World War I, over 405,000 in World War II, more than 36,000 in the Korean War, over 58,000 in Vietnam, nearly 300 in the Gulf War, and more than 7,000 in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. 

Each number represents a life—someone’s child, spouse, parent, or friend—who never came home. Each one died fighting for the values we hold dear. Each one deserves our unending gratitude. 

So, how can we honor our fallen heroes? 

Here at MISO, we are fortunate to have a Veteran’s Resource Group that plans employee events throughout the year. Events to support veterans. Events to remember those died fighting for us.  

Outside of MISO, we can visit a local veterans’ cemetery. Attend a community memorial service. Learn about Gold Star families. Or simply pause for a moment of silence. 

This Memorial Day, let’s do just that. Let’s honor the brave souls we can never thank in person. Let’s remember the extraordinary sacrifices made by ordinary Americans. And let’s carry forward the legacy of those who gave everything so we can live freely.