Remembering Those Who Gave Everything

Memorial Day is often seen as the unofficial beginning of summer. But at its heart, it is a day of remembrance — honoring those who gave their lives in service to others, and the families who carried on in their absence.

At St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, many of the seniors we serve are veterans or spouses of those who served. Over the years, we have heard stories marked by sacrifice, resilience, loss, and courage — like Mike, a Vietnam veteran and self-described military brat whose father and generations before him served proudly; and our own Dan Franco, who often speaks about how the discipline, dedication, and sense of service embodied by the Daughters of Charity reflect the very values he learned as a proud U.S. Marine.

And at a time when conflict and uncertainty once again fill headlines around the world, Memorial Day reminds us that war is never abstract. Its impact lives on in families, communities, and generations.

That is why the work of caring for one another matters so deeply.

Each day, for nearly fifty years, we continue preparing and delivering food and love to homebound seniors across Los Angeles County — many of whom spent their lives serving others in ways both seen and unseen.

As rising costs continue to place pressure on seniors and the organizations that serve them, we are especially grateful to our donors, volunteers, partners, and the Daughters of Charity, whose compassion helps ensure people like Mike are still met with dignity, care, and human connection.

This Memorial Day, we pause in gratitude for those who gave their lives in service — and for the enduring strength of the loved ones they left behind.