What Memorial Day Really Stands For

Heroes in Transition (H.I.T.)

With an extra day off and summer fast approaching, it’s easy to overlook the true meaning of Memorial Day. But that doesn’t make it right.

We’re reminded of that on Cape Cod thanks to a wonderful organization, Heroes In Transition (H.I.T.), that was born out of tragedy. The nonprofit was formed following the death of US Marine Captain Eric A. Jones who was killed in a helicopter collision in October 2009 during a combat mission while serving in Afghanistan.  Captain Jones was only 29.

He left behind his parents, Kenneth and Cynthia Jones of Mashpee. We can’t imagine the pain they have had to endure with the loss of their son, something that undoubtedly came to the forefront on Memorial Day when they, along with the nation, took time to remember those who died in service to their country.

Through that pain, the Joneses started Heroes in Transition to show their support to veterans returning from duty. That support comes in multiple forms, most visibly by providing assistance dogs for veterans, helping them better cope with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.  

But H.I.T. does more than that by offering home modifications for disabled veterans, including those here on Cape Cod. They also provide support for families whose loved ones have been deployed as well as financial assistance for veterans and military families on the Cape.

We ask that you take a moment to remember the sacrifices made by those like Captain Jones. Nearly 7,000 troops have died in Afghanistan and Iraq and over 900,000 have been injured.   

In the midst of all the backyard barbecues we enjoyed this past weekend, let’s not overlook their service to our country. And we encourage you to provide support for our servicemen who are returning home by learning more about the great work being done by Heroes in Transition at www.heroesintransition.org.

And for those who serve and have served our country, we thank you. Through Friday, June 10 we are offering a 20% discount on all sunglasses to active servicemen, veterans and their families. Make sure to use the code MD16 when checking out. And learn more about these brands – Ray-Ban and Randolph Engineering – that have a proud connection to our military.