I don't give you guys "as a veteran" bullshit that much, but for Memorial Day, I wanted to give you guys two pieces of insight that I try to share every year.

First, don't be intimidated by people who never served, or even by douchy VetBros, into thinking that you have to be sad all day today and that having a BBQ is disrespectful. None of the friends I lost in the war would think that a fitting tribute to what they did.

It's far more fitting to love your family and your neighbors and celebrate what we have instead of mourning what we have lost. It's a paradox to say that troops "selflessly" sacrificed, and then guilt you because you want to enjoy a day off. Service is a gift. Gifts ask no price.

Second, the toll of war isn't limited to those in uniform, OR on your side of the line. War is a destructive, miserable force of humanity. I encourage you to pay respect to soldiers, airmen, sailors & marines, but also remember the ones who don't get a grave marker at Arlington.

In short - honor the sacrifices and losses of war by 1.) loving those around you and 2.) understanding the price of war, and taking as many steps as you can to prevent the future generations from paying it. For tips on #2, see #1.

Enjoy your day everyone :)