On Monday, our state and nation will observe a day that holds significant meaning to all of us – Memorial Day. The very first Memorial Day was celebrated back in 1868, but it was not until an act of Congress in 1971 that the meaning of this day was expanded to remember those who have died in the fight to maintain and uphold our freedom. From the Revolutionary War to gain our independence, to the conflicts in the Middle East and conflicts in the world that we are currently involved in, soldiers from across the United States fight arm in arm to protect the place we call home and to release those stricken by the chains of tyranny and oppression.

Freedom is not free. Millions of American soldiers have died to ensure that our sovereign nation remains the leader of the free world. And millions of others have sacrificed time with loved ones as they are away in war-torn countries across the globe. Let us be reminded this weekend, today and in the future of all the Americans who have made sacrifices. As a veteran myself, this holiday has a special meaning for me.

One of the things I encourage everyone to remember about those who have served and given their lives in the protection of our values is that these men and women are doing so because they believe in the principles laid out in the constitution, regardless of the current political climate. They are serving because they know that the preservation of American freedom is the preservation of the free world. We owe a great deal of gratitude to those who have served and protected our right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

To love your country more than life is one of the greatest acts of selflessness I know, and I am reminded of that every single day. On Monday, I challenge you to pay it forward. While not all of us are willing or able to make the ultimate sacrifice, we can all do something to honor the memory of those who have fallen. Saying “thank you” to a veteran, volunteering to clean military graves, making a donation to a veterans organization or simply reflecting and being grateful for those who have dedicated their lives to our country is a wonderful way to remember those who have given everything. Even if you do not personally know someone who has served in the military, your life is directly affected by their sacrifice and I encourage you to remember those – past and present – whose selfless acts allow you to live with the freedom we so often take for granted. Let us not forget the families of those who are serving, have served or have paid the ultimate sacrifice. If you know the family or friends of a service member, say “thank you” to them for their sacrifices and commitment to this nation. They are the love and support system behind those who are fighting for our nation and we owe them a great deal of gratitude as well.

So to those out there that have served, thank you. To those across the globe today who are giving their time, talents and energy to preserving the American way of life, thank you. And to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, thank you. It is because of you that we are able to enjoy the freedom others lack, and are able to chase the American dream.

Senator Tonya Anderson represents the 43rd Senate District, which includes portions of DeKalb, Newton and Rockdale counties. She may be reached by email at tonya.anderson@senate.ga.gov.