Proud to be an AmericanAs we approach Memorial Day, I am reminded of what a great country we live in.It has been six months since the death of my husband, David Sietsema. He fought the battle of cancer for two years and, sorry to say, the cancer won.We were fortunate in one respect — we had time to make plans, say goodbye and remember all the good times. My family and I cherish all the great memories that we have.On Nov. 4, 2003, Dave and I were told he had six months to live. On Nov. 24, Dave chose to go to the Hospice Cottage in Luverne. He lived out his remaining days at this wonderful facility and on Nov. 29, Dave was called home. So the six months we were told he had was cut short by many days. But as we know, only our Lord knows when our time in this world is done.As Dave and I sat and planned his funeral, many thoughts and ideas went through his mind. One of them was that at his graveside military service he wanted there to be one member from the United States Marine Corps to be present and help fold the flag that draped his casket. Dave was a member of the USMC from 1961 to 1966. Well, thanks to our son, Brian, and Ron Hansen from Rock County Veteran’s Services Office, Dave’s wish was granted three times over. Three Marines came to the cemetery in Luverne. The day before Dave’s funeral I received a call from a Marine in St. Paul extending sympathy from the Corps to me and my family and informing me there would be three Marines coming. He also stated that they were proud to be a part of the graveside military rites to lay a fellow Marine to rest.When the flag was removed from Dave’s casket that cold, windy day, a chill ran through me. Not only because of the Marines but also because of how proud Dave would have been to have them there, folding the flag that made him so proud and presenting it to his wife of 35 years. Needless to say, I was very honored as the Marines presented the flag to me and said, "On behalf of the U.S. Marine Corps and the President of the United States, it is my honor to present this flag to you."Wow! What a great country we live in. We, as Americans, should be proud of our president and our military forces. Not only do they fight for our freedom, but also for those who are less fortunate than we are. And they take great pride in honoring their former members and their families in their time of need.God Bless America,Linda SietsemaLuverne