For Memorial Day this year, I ask you to consider a thought. As 1 June 2023 approaches, what will you be doing? What will you be dreaming about, who will you be missing, what will you be dreading? I take you back 80 years to 1 June 1943.

Milo James Ross found himself enlisted in the United States Army. Dreaming of his new bride far away at 629 8th Street in Ogden, Utah. Missing his family and his son who will be born on Independence Day in just over a month. Missing the blessed Wasatch mountains of Weber County, Utah. Dreading what might be coming in the war against Germany and Japan. Waiting for his next assignment, but until then enduring the heat of San Bernardino County, California.

On that date, Milo James Ross prepared this document for the future. Hopeful that the future only required a Power of Attorney, not a Last Will and Testament. But with the sober reality he might not be competent to act either.

Another interesting insight into this document. Typewriter prepared, yet handwritten in for the specifics. That person who prepared this document, how many of these were typed up that day? Were they done in duplicate? What type of precision existed to type these time after time again with virtually no mistakes? What type of service would you have rendered in the War? Were you raising the flag on a chateau after a battle or typing Powers of Attorney? Were you cooking the food or making the clothes? Were you building the Jeeps or scouring the battlefields for remains? All just as necessary, but only a few more prestigious and recognized.

What will you do this Memorial Day that pushes forward the work of mankind for the better? What will you do this month that serves your Nation and State? Are you thinking of others and pushing for the work or just resting on the labors of others? How will you further Freedom?

While we remember the dead, we need take encouragement and strength from their Sacrifice. Pick up and go to work.