I don't know if it was the changed pace of Shutdown life or the passionate posts from my friend Alan Pravel about preserving Memorial Day to honor those who died in combat; but a memory bubbled to the front of my consciousness.

I had a classmate in high school named Stephen Phillis. I would not say we were good friends, but good acquaintances is accurate enough. We were both "eggheads," on sports teams, and shared friends. 

After graduation Stephen entered the Air Force Academy and became a jet pilot. He died in Iraq during Operation Desert Storm. Stephen could have returned to base the day he died but instead he flew back into enemy fire to protect his downed wingman and radio for rescue. He was shot down and died in the crash. He served, fought, sacrificed for his country, and died a hero trying to help another pilot. 

I remember learning of his death and thinking, "What a shame." I regret not feeling more at the time.  I never spoke publicly about Stephen and I'm not sure why after nearly 30 years he resurfaces in my memory. This Memorial Day I speak of, remember, and honor  Capt. Stephen Richard Phillis. 

Take time this Memorial Day to remember and honor those who died in combat to make today possible for us.