"The Meaning of Memorial Day"

Ronald Loss Ronald Loss, of Narragansett, comes from a "Navy family" and many of his relatives have served in the military. Ronald tried to join the Navy himself when he was younger, but was not accepted. Every year, he spends Memorial Day weekend attending many parades and celebrations because he feels this day is very special and wants to honor members of the military who have served or are currently serving. He remembers his uncles, Joe Staba and Eddie Loss, who served in World War II.

Summer intern Marie Andrews will be around the island this season asking everyone to share opinions on timely subjects. Here are some thoughts about Memorial Day.

Don Dauphinee Don Dauphinee, of Jamestown, is a Vietnam veteran who celebrates Memorial Day by remembering the people he served with in Vietnam, especially those who did not come home. His roommate and a friend from church both died while serving. His daughter, Anna, is currently serving as an Air Force Lieutenant in Baghdad. She has been in Iraq for nine months. She called him last week to say she will be coming home in a few days. He described his reaction as "having the clouds start to move." Michael Feeley Michael Feeley, of Jamestown, celebrates Memorial Day to express his appreciation for our active duty military members who are fighting right now to protect this country. On this day, he remembers his grandfather, Bill DiVona, who served in World War II. Michael hopes that celebrating Memorial Day and honoring those who have lost their lives will remind us of the cost of war. Denise Rounds Denise Rounds, of Jamestown, takes time on Memorial Day to remember the people who have given their lives for our freedom, especially those who serve our country while we are at war. Denise is a former Girl Scout leader and remembers instilling the purpose of celebrating this day in the young girls as she helped them prepare to march in the Memorial Day Parade. Even though they were having fun making banners to carry, she made sure they all understood what they were a part of. Jan Martin Jan Martin, of Jamestown, a member of The Humane Society of Jamestown, takes time on Memorial Day to pay tribute to dogs who served in the military. On this day, she also remembers her father in-law, Terrence McGaughan, and other family members and friends who have served in wars and fought for our country. Donna Cote Donna Cote, of Jamestown, takes time on Memorial Day to honor the military members who are currently serving as well as the veterans who served in the past or lost their lives protecting this country. She believes that active members are "doing a very important thing." She remembers her father, Kenneth Abrahamson, because he served in the Korean War. Donna is very concerned about, and prays for, the young men serving in our military who are the same age as her son.