Memorial Day

One should spend a few days every year contemplating exactly what is bequeathed to us by previous generations. George Washington informed us at his First Inaugural Address that, "To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace. A free people ought not only to be armed, but disciplined." He had fought the Revolutionary War for nearly a decade, then fought for the establishment of a democratic republic which could survive the divided country.
Public administration is one way of continuing the American tradition begun by a group of patriots more than 200 years ago. Though the Founders had a wide variety of opinions concerning the proper role of government (as shown by the truly rancorous debate in the media), there is no doubt that all accepted the need of a vital and efficient government in order to fulfill the will of the people. At its heart, this is the role of the public administrator.
Our friends and family in the armed services of this country deserve this day, veterans that are forgotten the rest of the year deserve this day, and those that are no longer with us deserve this day. They really deserve more from us; our eternal gratitude. Memorial Day is a taste of the respect all who have fought and served this country deserve.