VETERAN VOICES FOR FIBROMYALGIA FOUNDER HONORS THE FALLEN ON MEMORIAL DAY

Pictured here: Left side, World War II Army Veteran Staff Sergent Ellis. Right side, Kristal Kent, Army Veteran and Founder of Veteran Voices For Fibromyalgia. Staff Sergeant Ellis will be 100 years old on July 4th, 2025. In this photo, Kristal is presenting Staff Sergeant Ellis with a limited-edition challenge coin, to commemorate his service during World War II, and his upcoming 100th birthday

Memorial Day is a yearly National Day of Remembrance dedicated to honoring military personnel who died while serving our country. This year, Founder of Veteran Voices For Fibromyalgia, Kristal Kent, had the honor to be a guest speaker for the Olmsted Falls, Ohio Memorial Day Ceremonial Event.

Read Kristal's speech below, watch it by clicking the video image below, or listen to it by following this link: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AZcfkhdyd/

Kristal Kent as guest speaker at the Olmsted Falls, Ohio 2025 Memorial Day Ceremonial Event. Click image above to listen to her speech.

Kristal's written speech as follows:

Good morning, friends, family, and fellow Americans. Today, we gather not just as individuals, but as a community united in gratitude, remembrance, and unwavering pride. Memorial Day is more than a holiday; it is a sacred occasion to honor our nation’s heroes who gave the ultimate sacrifice to celebrate the freedom they secured, and to renew our commitment to the values they fought to protect.

As we stand here today, let us pause and remember the countless men and women who laid down their lives for the ideals of liberty, justice, and democracy. Each star on our flag shines brightly because of their courage and sacrifice. They came from varied backgrounds, different towns and cities, and carried unique stories, but their love for this nation united them in purpose.

Think of the Revolutionary War soldier who fought to birth a new nation, the Civil War combatant who stood to mend its divides, the World War heroes who defended freedom in the face of tyranny, and the modern-day servicemembers who answered the call to protect our way of life. These individuals didn’t just defend America; they embodied our nation’s spirit through their service and selfless sacrifice.

Memorial Day is a time to reflect not only on the lives lost but also on the legacy they left behind. Their sacrifice has gifted us the incredible privilege of living in a nation where freedom is not just a word but a reality. From the right to speak openly, to the opportunity to chase our dreams, and even to freely choose to serve our country, these liberties are the fruits of their courage.

We must also remember that freedom is not inherited; freedom is earned and maintained. It is the duty of every citizen to uphold the principles for which these heroes died for. Today, as we honor their memory, let us recommit ourselves to preserving the values they cherished, to build a nation that continues to uphold justice, equality, and peace.

As we gather at ceremonies, visit cemeteries, or simply reflect in quiet moments, we are joined by millions across this great land in an unbroken chain of gratitude. Memorial Day reminds us that we are never alone in honoring our heroes. Each wreath laid, each flag waved, and each story shared reinforces the collective bond we have as Americans.

Let us also extend our gratitude to the families of the fallen, who have borne the weight of loss with dignity and resilience. Their courage reminds us that the cost of freedom is profound, not only for those who serve, but for those who love them.

While remembrance is essential, Memorial Day also calls us to action. Let us celebrate their lives by living ours with purpose. Volunteer at a veteran organization, donate to causes that support servicemembers and their families, or simply reach out to thank those who continue to serve. Small acts of kindness ripple outward, honoring their legacy through deeds rather than words.

Additionally, we must educate the next generation about the significance of this day. Memorial Day is not just a date on the calendar; it is a solemn reminder of what it means to be free. Share stories of heroism, visit historical landmarks, and ensure that young minds understand the sacrifices that shaped this nation.

Patriotism is not just waving a flag or singing an anthem; it is a deep and abiding love for our country and our fellow citizens. Memorial Day gives us the opportunity to reignite this spirit within us. It reminds us that patriotism is rooted in selflessness, courage, and unity. When we honor the fallen, we celebrate the best America has to offer community, strength, resilience, and hope.

Let us take a moment to reflect on the beauty of our nation. From the towering mountains to the rolling plains, from the bustling cities to the quiet, quaint towns like ours. Every corner of this land is a testament to the freedom preserved by those who served, their sacrifice is etched into the landscape and woven into the fabric of our lives.

Before we leave today, I would like to share one of my favorite quotes by the Greek philosopher Thucydides who said, “the bravest are surely those who have the clearest vision of what is before them, glory and danger alike, and yet notwithstanding, go out to meet it.” As we conclude this Memorial Day observance, may we leave with courage and love, our hearts full of gratitude and minds inspired to make a difference. Let us carry forward the memory of those who served ever so courageously. Their sacrifice is a call to action—to live as they lived, with honor, integrity, and an unwavering belief in the promise of America.

I am grateful to share this moment with all of you and humbled to represent all my Brothers and Sisters who fell in the Line of Duty. Let us honor our fallen heroes, their families, and this great nation, both today and every day, by preserving their memory in our hearts and continuing their legacy through our actions. Thank you.

Speech written by: Kristal Kent, Founder of Veteran Voices For Fibromyalgia copyright 2025

Pictured Here: Right Side Kristal Kent, with Chairman of the Olmsted Falls Parks and Recreation Board and Coordinator of the 2025 Memorial Day Ceremonial event, Thomas Osborne.