Editor:

This Memorial Day marks another year where veterans and current military personnel are remembered. As a community, it is our time to honor the men and women who have the courage to put themselves on the line for their country. The “support the troops” stickers on the bumpers of cars are nice and the posts on Facebook about supporting troops overseas are good to see, but now is the time to actually go out and support troops through a meaningful service on a day meant to truly honor troops.

It takes more than an ounce of courage for anyone to even sign themselves up for the service to begin with, but it takes even more bravery to risk one’s life for the sake of the safety of all American citizens.

Four years ago, beloved Wisconsin Army National Guard soldier Ryan Adams exemplified great courage in combat and his life was taken. Adams, a local Hodag, joined the National Guard in 2001 after graduation in an effort to serve his country. According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, his uncle Patrick Adams said, “He was very proud to serve his country. He was incredibly proud to be a soldier, and he loved doing what he did.” Adams’ parents, Peter and Jalene, were especially proud of their son’s commitment to the service.

Adams, a graduate of Rhinelander High School, was a sports fanatic with a soft side, volunteering with Angels on My Shoulder, a non-profit cancer support group in St. Germain. Deployed in 2003, Adams served his first tour of duty in Iraq. His bravery and service to his country will never be forgotten.

As a tribute to Adams and the thousands of other military personnel who have served in the military, Memorial Day means more than just a cookout and parades; this day symbolizes the sacrifice these people and their families have made in order to make our country a safer place.

In remembrance of military veterans, please attend the Memorial Day service on May 27. The ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. in the Trig’s parking lot near the bandshell and will continue at 11 a.m. at the courthouse for an additional service. These events are a way to honor military personnel who sacrifice more than one can imagine for our country today, tomorrow and for years to come.

Mikayla Nuszkiewicz and Stephanie Kuski, Rhinelander