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Remembering the Meaning of Memorial Day

Story Published: May 28, 2012 at 7:08 PM EDT

Story Updated: May 28, 2012 at 7:08 PM EDT

The tears still fall for Jack Sweet Sr., who lost his grandson and namesake more than four years ago.

Private First Class Jack Sweet was killed in Iraq in Februrary 2008 when his humvee was hit a roadside bomb.

He was just 19 years old.

"Everyday something reminds me of Jack, or I see Jack everyday in my mind, or something that he's done, it never gets old," PFC Sweet's grandfather said.

Jack Sr. keeps the memories close by.

On this Memorial Day, he goes through a book of cards sent to his family following Jack Jr's death.

The holiday holds new meaning for the Sweet family.

"It's a day that you have to concentrate if you don't wanna feel sad all day," Jack Sweet Sr. said.

A memorial for PFC Sweet inside the Gold Star Family's home comforts Jack Sr. and his family.

So does another - the memorial for the fallen soldier in downtown Alexandria Bay.

"It's very fitting that its next to the river. Jack loved being on the water," his grandfather said.

The Sweet family says support from the community and the entire country means a great deal.

They hope that Jack, and all of our fallen troops are remembered on Memorial Day.

Jack Sweet Sr. says he'll always grieve for his grandson:

"Jack died at 19 - He had so much to live for," he said.

And for him, every day is Memorial Day.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
, Watertown, NY

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