On Friday, Capt. Anja Dabelic, a doctor and fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, on behalf of the president of the United States, gave military promotions to four of our medical students at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine.

This was the only live graduation event at UTHSC this year – a fact reflecting its importance and its meaning. The ceremony was small, it was held outdoors, and everyone was wearing masks – masks that did nothing to dampen the beautiful and poignant sentiments occupying this space.

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Under normal circumstances, in a large graduation auditorium filled with students, friends, family and faculty, it is this group of students – and this group of students alone – that always receives a standing ovation.

This ovation reflects the knowledge that these students are not only willing to give their time and energy to others, but that they are also willing to lay down their lives for this cause. The commitment and sacrifice of these young men and women is a living reminder that values and principles matter. 

How can we as a community honor their commitment? During the time when all Americans, and indeed all citizens of the world, are facing the common existential threat of COVID-19, we can honor these students by protecting one another through practices that limit viral spread.

We can honor them by reinforcing the bonds that bring us together rather than the fears that tear us apart. We can honor them by the value and time we dedicate to family, friends and community.

On this Memorial Day, let us choose to honor these young physicians and be their ovation – a silent ovation guided by actions that show that we are worthy of their sacrifice.