I hope this note finds everyone doing well during these unprecedented times. My name is Mark Zakaib, and I’m the President and owner of Survivor Filter. I know the last few months have probably put more things into perspective for all of us than in any other time in our life. But I also know that Memorial Day is a time of year that many of us take extra time to remember, reflect and probably even refocus our lives through the sacrifices and dedication of others.

The image is of my Grandfather. Mike Zakaib was a Sergeant in the US Army during World War II and volunteered to fight for and defend freedom and justice against tyranny and evil. My grandfather was actually born in Canada and moved to Michigan at a young age to work and send money to his family. That ethic and drive drove him to volunteer for the US Military and ascend to the rank of Sergeant despite having no formal education. Although he returned home from the war, we know countless other men and women never did. The sacrifice of military service members started long before World War II and of course sadly continued long after—and still to this day. Those who pay the ultimate price for our freedom are constantly remembered and honored, but at this time we focus a little sharper on who they were and what they did to allow us the liberties we have today. Who do you remember and honor on Memorial Day and throughout the year?

This year Memorial Day falls in a time period of unprecedented social and personal challenges across the globe. As a brand and a company, we have of course felt and heard personal stories, trials and struggles like never before. We’ve experienced much of the same in our personal lives as well. We have seen people from all walks of life and all areas of the world put trust in our products and brands for a new or added layer of protection in the battle to stay healthy. This trust is not taken lightly and we are honored to know so many have chosen us to help them through a small portion of this big problem. Please know that we will continue to find new ways to provide safety, comfort, protection—and hopefully a little fun—through our products and expertise. 

But please also take the time to remember those who are no longer with us and who gave the ultimate sacrifice at monumentally difficult times in wars and conflicts of the past—as well as this very moment. We hope everyone has a safe and healthy holiday and is able to enjoy a little break, get outside or see family members.