As we honor those who came before us this Memorial Day, I find myself reflecting on the unbroken chain of service that stretches back more than 250 years.

Memorial Day is our nation’s solemn tradition of honoring the uniformed servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving. It has its roots in the “Decoration Days” adopted by Union states after the Civil War, but servicemembers sacrificed for our future freedoms long before that.

Capt. Isaac Davis led a company of Minutemen from his village of Acton, Mass., into what would be known as the Battle of Concord on April 19, 1775. He was 30 years old when he was struck and killed by a British musket ball. He’s recognized as the first American officer to fall during the Revolutionary War. He left behind his wife and four children.

[NATONAL CEMETERY ADMINISTRATION: Memorial Day History]

This Memorial Day, coming just weeks before we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, offers an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who have worn the uniform over so many generations. MOAA honors their memory by working to protect the benefits earned by both today’s warriors and those who have served – not just for themselves, but for their families and their survivors.

By supporting and protecting their earned benefits, we strengthen that chain linking all who’ve worn the uniform – one that has stretched for more than 250 years from Captain Davis and his Minutemen to the streets of Baghdad and Kabul, and to those serving and sacrificing today and far into the future.

So, this weekend, connect with your battle buddies, your shipmates, your wingmen, your classmates and squadmates, your family members. Reach out to those who may need a friendly voice. Mourn and honor all those we’ve lost. Take pride in your role as part of a long line of duty, courage, and patriotism. And “Never Stop Serving.”