As this long Memorial Day weekend approaches, each of us will likely be enjoying picnics and BBQs as we begin the official first weekend of summer. For many of us, the "Memorial" in Memorial Day is forgotten and ignored. It is a day that was born out of the horror of the Civil War, when more than 600,000 soldiers, Union and Confederate, fell in battle. Over the years, it has become a day to honor all men and women who have given their lives in the cause of freedom.
Often we do not observe the day as it should be, a day where we actively remember our ancestors, our family members, our loved ones, our neighbors, and our friends who have given the ultimate sacrifice. There are many things we can do, but here are a few suggestions:
- Continue a classic tradition: Put flowers and flags on the graves of departed friends and family that were in the military. If you live far away from the final resting place of anyone you know, decorate the grave of a stranger.
- Visit memorials or join in the observances at a military base or cemetery near you. Check your local paper, or call the closest military base, American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars post to find out what's happening and when.
- Fly the U.S. Flag at half-staff.
- Remember those who fought and lived to tell about it: Take some flowers, books or cookies to a nearby veterans' hospital.
This weekend enjoy your time with family and friends, but take some time to do something that acknowledges and honors the men and women for which Memorial Day is established.
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