On Memorial Day, and throughout the year, we honor those who have served our country and their families for their sacrifice. Brad and I have special memories of our fathers, who shared their memories of World War II with our boys when they were young.

My father, Malcolm McLane, flew 63 missions in his P-47 fighter plane before he was shot down in the Battle of the Bulge on Christmas Eve. He spent the last six months of the war in a German POW camp.

Brad’s father, Bob Kuster, set up advance communications for the Army. He landed on the beaches of Normandy (while my father flew cover overhead) and his unit liberated the concentration camps at the end of the war.

Without glamour or glory, they shared their stories of courage and sacrifice. Their closest buddies did not make it home, but they returned to raise their families and serve their communities.

Our troops deserve our support and commitment. Our veterans deserve our respect and the jobs and services they need to support their families and live productive lives.

On Memorial Day, let’s all honor our troops and their families - and the memory of those who have served our country to keep the world safe for democracy.