A family member visits the headstone of U.S. Marine Cpl. Jason Karella, killed in Afghanistan in 2008, during a Memorial Day ceremony at Fort Richardson National Cemetery in Alaska on May 29, 2017.

This is what Memorial Day is about, not barbeques, ballgames or jumping in the pool. On this solemn day of remembrance, we honor the selfless patriots who sacrificed everything for the cause of freedom. The Stream also asks you to pray for all Gold Star families, including the loved ones of Cpl. Jason Karella. You can learn more about this American hero’s life and legacy here.