An Army Chaplain at Fort Benning who is getting ready for his third deployment, is asking you to stop and take a moment to remember those who have given their lives for their country.

Major Jeff Bailey is Chaplain for the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, based at Fort
Benning. He says when he was growing up, Memorial Day meant parades, and barbeques and remembering those who have served their country.

But since he has been in the military, Memorial Day has become much more personal.

“Because on Memorial Day we remember all those who’ve died and have placed the ultimate sacrifice on freedom’s alter. And when you can remember the names and see the faces of friends
that you’ve lost, it does take on a new meaning. It takes on a personal meaning.”

75 soldiers from the Sledgehammer Brigade at Fort Benning have been killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Bailey is among those scheduled to head to Kuwait for a training mission in June.

There are currently 1908 soldiers deployed from Fort Stewart and the Division Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion is deploying in August, heading to southern Afghanistan.

Tags: Fort Stewart, Fort Benning, Memorial Day, Major Jeff Bailey