Reflections on Memorial Day from Woodbury Councilman Burns, Poem from Grandmother

Today I have been asked to say a few words about Memorial Day. As a City Council Member and as a lawyer, I am someone who is rarely at a loss for words. In fact, I may sometimes say too many.

Today I do not think that will be a problem.

When I humbly reflect on those who came before me, those who fought and died, I am grateful and say thank you. Thank you to all the Grandpa's and Grandma's, Dad's and Mom's, Brother's and Sister's, Uncle's and Aunt's and all of the other relatives that we have lost and particularly those of us who lost who have suffered the loss of a service member recently.

May their warm memories bring us all comfort on this Memorial Day.

In 2012 I lost my grandfather, Del Alexander, a proud Pacific Theater Marine Corp Veteran. In 2012 I also lost my grandmother, Betty Alexander, who, during her career as a secretary, worked in other branches of the military. In fact the two of them, and their son, my uncle Bill, had all of the branches covered but the Coast Guard. My family still has not covered that branch of the military, but, I suspect in the future we will do so.

My grandmother also was a prolific writer and today I am going to share one of her poems entitled Memorial Day as the best reflection I can give on this day.

by Betty G. Alexander

We should remember those who paved the way

Who helped to make us who we are to-day

Our ancestors, our loved ones, folks and kin

The Country and the Patriots within

The nation and our flag, respect and show

Our thanks to those unknown and those we know

We honor those in years gone by with grace

The good and bad times called upon to face

And as we live with good and bad times too

Perhaps we'll hear, "Oh I remember you"

So through the winds of time may it be said

We honored both the living and the dead

      On This Memorial Day

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