Reverchon Park in Dallas was adorned with a sea of red, white, and blue as thousands came together to participate in the closing ceremonies of Carry the Load. This annual Memorial Day event pays tribute to military veterans and first responders who have given their lives in service to our nation.
Marking its 15th year, Carry the Load was founded to refocus Memorial Day on remembrance and the sacrifices made by our heroes. Each flag displayed throughout the park symbolized a service member or first responder who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.
Clint Bruce, co-founder of Carry the Load, expressed his hope for a future where heroes are no longer needed, but acknowledged the enduring necessity of honoring those who serve. “I would love for our nation to no longer need heroes, but we’re always gonna need heroes,” Bruce stated. He emphasized the importance of how we commemorate our heroes, which influences how long we will continue to have them.
Bruce shared that the organization was born from his frustration with how Memorial Day was traditionally observed. “I was angry because we weren’t doing Memorial Day well,” Bruce explained. “To me, the antidote to anger has always been action.” This action has evolved into a powerful movement, with thousands walking together in solemn tribute, carrying the memories of those lost in service.
Participants of the event, including those who never served in the military, found deep personal meaning in the tribute. Justin Ridnour, a participant, shared, “Oh, it’s emotional. Even though I didn’t serve in the military, a lot of my family did, and some are not here anymore.”
Bruce noted that the gathering sends a strong message to veterans and the families of the fallen. “I can’t be angry because I think no one remembers my friends anymore — it’s impossible,” he said. “Eight out of every 10 people here is a great American citizen, not even a veteran, and the seed of anger for a lot of veterans is we don’t think America cares, and you can’t legitimately feel that way after this.”
The event saw participation from children, families, Scout volunteers, and military veterans, all united in honoring the memory of those who have served and sacrificed.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
