HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — If you haven't already - do pause and take a moment to commemorate this day. Earlier today, it's what Huntsville City leaders did to remember our fallen soldiers at the Huntsville Madison County Veterans Memorial.
For retired army veteran, Jim Leary, Memorial Day is a big deal. "Veterans are a special breed. a lot of us make decisions at a very young age. I have four combat tours and unfortunately lost soldiers in combat. so I understand the significance of memorial day. Most veterans do, and most of our community does this a very veteran friendly community."
The Director of Business Development for Boeing Missiles and Weapons Systems said most veterans tend to have a connection because, "... we all sacrifice in different ways. And hav[ing] some collaboration with each other after you leave the military is important."
Willie Pullom with Redstone Arsenal Sergeants Major Association also shared his most memorable experience during his thirty years in the army. "Pretty much every day I was on birds flying all over Iraq, me and my boss." And on this day, ".... we should honor and cherish those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice and we still have our ladies and gentlemen that are out there in harm's way."
Huntsville Chief of Police Kirk Giles has a very similar perspective. "We would not be here standing here today if it weren't for all those fallen off our fallen soldiers. The tribute is the least we can do to take the time out of our day to commemorate those who have died for us."