FOREVER REMEMBERED: Today, as we observe the Memorial Day holiday, we collectively declare that we refuse to forget.

Though we hold their memory throughout the year, this day reminds us to reflect, remember and pay our respects to those whose sacrifices have afforded us the freedom to celebrate in their honor.

Memorial Day has come to mark the start of the summer season, a time when families head outdoors for recreation and relaxation. But this is not an irreverent celebration. 

When Americans gather together today to experience joy or engage in somber recognition, they are taking part in the very way of life that so many brave men and women of our Armed Forces died to protect.

We are proud to salute everyone who has served or is serving in the country’s Armed Forces, including the Marines, Navy, Army, Air Force, Coast Guard and Merchant Marines.

While we hold them in the highest regard, we would also be right to consider how those who make it home are rewarded for their service.

In light of Memorial Day and with May being National Military Appreciation Month, the online organization WalletHub set out to identify the best and worst states for military retirees. 

The group compared all 50 states as well as the District of Columbia in terms of 19 key metrics — ranging from taxes on military benefits to veteran job opportunities — which together speak to the economic environment, health care services and overall quality of life of our vets.

Pennsylvania was ranked as follows: 37th in the number of veterans per 100 inhabitants; 36th in the number of veteran-owned businesses per 1,000 inhabitants; 28th in the number of veteran job opportunities; 41st in the number of VA benefits facilities per number of veterans; 33rd in the number of VA health facilities per number of veterans; 44th in the number of military bases per 10,000 veterans; and 21st in the number of homeless veterans per number of veterans.

For the full report, visit the website wallethub.com/edu/best-states-for-military-retirees/3915/.