On March 18th, National Supreme Sacrifice Day honors those who have made tremendous sacrifices for the sake and the good of others as well as those who sacrifice their lives every day for us.

We may most readily call to mind the men and women in uniform who have laid down their lives protecting their country and communities. This day also honors those who may have stepped forward during times of crisis to rescue a stranger or a neighbor and gave the supreme sacrifice that day. 

These sacrifices come in many forms. We don’t always recognize them when we see them, nor do we always expect them. Like in the case of one young Miner who saved the lives of 11-year-old Emmet and 8-year-old Myrdith when the sleigh they were in overturned during a blizzard so fierce they couldn’t see their house, though they were only 200 yards away. Wind howling so loudly, they couldn’t hear their father’s voice calling to them. On March 15, 1920, they’d set home from school in rural North Dakota and been caught up in the blizzard. Their 16-year-old sister, Hazel Miner protected her siblings with her body, keeping the blankets in place over her siblings through the night. Hazel Miner died that night, but her actions saved the lives of her siblings.

These sacrifices don’t always come in uniform and are often unsung. Often, these heroes step up when we least expect it and when we need it most. 

HOW TO OBSERVE #SupremeSacrificeDay

Honor someone who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Visit with their families, support them and the people in uniform who place their lives on the line, daily. Visit a local memorial and learn the names of local heroes. Participate in events around your state that support the military and first responders. Use #SupremeSacrificeDay to post on social media.