Many Americans associate Memorial Day with a three-day weekend, barbecues and massive sales. But its significance is so much greater.

Today we honor our nation's sons and daughters who gave their lives to protect their country and its people. From World War I, World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, Kuwait, Afghanistan, and now, Iraq — these soldiers bravely fought and died so that the democratic freedoms of America would not be compromised.

In this state, which is home to so many military families, this day is particularly meaningful — and for far too many, painfully somber. To date, the war in Iraq has claimed the lives of approximately 3,429 American soldiers. As our political leaders continue their passionate debate over the war, we must not forget those who laid down their lives because of it.

Today, 50,000 lei will be placed on the graves of veterans at the National Cemetery of the Pacific and at veterans cemeteries throughout the state. This cultural symbol is a small, but fitting and poignant way to honor these fallen soldiers. And there are other ways to observe this day.

In 2000, Congress passed the "National Moment of Remembrance," asking that at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day, every American pause to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It's the least we can do.

Inscribed on the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia is the following:

"Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God."

Let all our soldiers, those known and unknown, be honored today.