Great thought and I agree but today, it seems that this Government does not give a damn! I feel sorry of those currently serving as changes occur to their detriment.
To me, it seems that Memorial Day is just another day off for almost all of Government, little else. They (collectively) could give a damn, just give me my day off!
We understood that the only time the government really gave a damn was during election time. I had a different view though. The US Constitution starts with "We the people", and therefore my duties to "... support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic" were just that, to protect the people.
Personally, the only gratitude that I welcomed was from the people. A simple "thank you" and a handshake meant more to me than any award the government could give me. Although my family does get together on Memorial day for some lively partying, we have members of active duty, reserve and National Guard. They've joined our 'extended' family and are welcome anytime they are in the area.