In the twin tragedies we have experienced as a nation in New York and Texas this past week, we have seen some grim reminders of how important and fragile life on this earth can be. Many of us have looked at our loved ones in a renewed spirit of appreciation for the wonderful things they bring to our lives. 

We are now heading into a three-day weekend in commemoration of Memorial Day. While many Americans take advantage of the time to plan celebrations with family and friends to usher in the unofficial start of summer, I will go into this weekend with thoughts of the original meaning of Memorial Day: appreciation and reflection on the sacrifices of those military members who gave their lives in service to this country.  

Please join me in taking time this weekend to honor these brave people who stood on the front lines in the name of democracy, the hallmark of our identity as citizens of the United States. Many of us have been directly touched by the loss of loved ones who died defending our democracy in military service. Our thoughts are with you. 

Like the armed forces, we too are a uniformed service dedicated to a cause larger than ourselves, a cause reflected in the values we cherish as an organization: conservation, safety, diversity, interdependence and service to the American people. 

Let’s recognize our many fellow employees—our fire, law enforcement, recreation, IT, dispatch, and other personnel—who will continue working throughout this holiday weekend. You will be out there displaying our core value of service to the American people. 

As you get together this weekend with family and friends, I ask you to do so in a spirit of gratitude for the freedoms you enjoy—freedoms that have come at a high cost for so many. 

And please remember our core value of safety. Summer activities bring a whole new set of dangers, so please be mindful—and come back safely on Tuesday, refreshed and ready to dive back into service. 

Have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend. Be sure to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices that brought us to this point, as well as the gift of our family and friends who are there to celebrate with us.