NEW ORLEANS — Monday may have been a perfect day for a summer barbecue, but the World War II Museum reminded the community about the true meaning of Memorial Day. Veterans, families of soldiers, and civilians all gathered in the Freedom Pavilion to honor those who helped us gain exactly that—freedom.
Those like Rebecca Christy's father and her son, Josh. Christy is now a Gold star family member twice over, as her father died when she was young, and her son died in his mid-30s from a rare form of cancer.
"He was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive incurable brain cancer," Christy said. "It was determined [Josh's] cancer was service related and most likely caused by exposures he received while doing the job he loved."
She says that while Josh never met her father, he was inspired by him, and now the connection they share is undeniable. Now, she shares their story with those who will lend an ear as she strives to keep their memory alive.
"They both loved the military. They both loved their service. I appreciate my mom always talked to the family about my dad," Christy said.
For many, Memorial Day may be a summer holiday, but for Christy and other family members of soldiers who have died, every day is a reminder of that sacrifice.
"Early on, we knew that we could either focus on the grief we felt for what we lost or the joy we felt for what we had, so we chose joy," Christy said.
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