Memorial Day is more than just an extended holiday weekend where we get to grill out with family and friends, enjoy shopping sales or take the boat out on the lake — it’s a time to pay tribute to those who gave their lives in service to the American people.

From the Civil War through the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, approximately 27,000 Wisconsin military members have been killed while protecting our nation’s freedoms.

We can best honor our fallen heroes this Monday by attending a local ceremony, visiting a veterans cemetery, supporting military families or pausing for a moment of gratitude.

We must never forget that, because of the sacrifices made by these courageous men and women, we get to live in the greatest country in the world.