I have to admit I didn't watch Sen. McCain or Sen. Clinton's Memorial Day speeches. I did read a bit about them, and caught a few clips of McCain on the news. I even saw a bit of Bush's, but had to stop after he said "whitehead stones". Basically, though, most of their remarks were pretty standard stuff, except for Senator Clinton's speech about Puerto Rico's voting rights, which I thought was an unusual departure given the occasion, and McCain's use of the day to attack Barack Obama. Not sure how he figures that honors fallen heroes, but as I said, I didn't watch the entire speech.

I did watch Sen. Obama's speech, and was struck by its simplicity and humility, its stark setting, and the small, invitation-only crowd of veterans in Las Cruces. It was quite a contrast from the 75,000 strong rally in Portland, and I thought it was fitting and appropriate.

On this Memorial Day, as our nation honors its unbroken line of fallen heroes, our sense of patriotism is particularly strong. Because while we gather here under open skies, we know that far beyond the Organ Mountains – in the streets of Baghdad, and the outskirts of Kabul – America’s sons and daughters are sacrificing on our behalf. And our thoughts and prayers are with them.

I speak to you today with deep humility. My grandfather marched in Patton’s Army, but I cannot know what it is to walk into battle like so many of you. My grandmother worked on a bomber assembly line, but I cannot know what it is for a family to sacrifice like so many of yours have.

I am the father of two young girls, and I cannot imagine what it is to lose a child. My heart breaks for the families who’ve lost a loved one.

...

So on this day, of all days, let’s memorialize our fallen heroes by honoring all who wear our country’s uniform; and by completing their work to make America more secure and our world more free. But let’s also do our part – service-member and civilian alike – to live up to the idea that so many of our fellow citizens have consecrated – the idea of America. That is the essence of patriotism. That is the lesson of this solemn day. And that is the task that lies ahead. May God bless you, and may God bless the United States of America.

In a welcome bit of Memorial Day news, it looks like Sen. Kennedy's illness isn't going to stop him from doing the things he loves. I hope that means a return to the Senate soon, but even if not, yesterday's Teddy news is a hopeful sign. Despite an earlier statement that he might not participate, he took second place in his class in the Figawi boat race, an event that he's won twice in the past.

Funny, I just assumed Figawi was a town in Massachusetts. Seems I was wrong.

The Figawi race started in 1972 and takes its name from a question disoriented sailors often ask themselves, "Where the Figawi?''

So, wherever the Fig you were and whatever the Fig you did, hope you had a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend, and a great start to the summer.