Although Memorial Day is known as a fun holiday, filled with friends, family, picnics, and barbecues, that marks the beginning of the summer, it’s important to celebrate Memorial Day for its true purpose. Take a moment this Memorial Day to honor those who lost their lives while fighting in the U.S. Armed Forces, particularly those who died as a result of injuries or in battle. Remember, this holiday is different from Veteran’s Day as it specifically honors those who sacrificed their lives to protect you and their country.
It doesn’t matter if you know someone who has lost their life while in the U.S. Armed Forces or not, you should still pay your respects. There are many small things you can do on Memorial Day to honor their lives, including:
Saying Thank You. Write a thank-you note to a veteran for all of their service! Go visit veterans in person and listen to their stories, or write a thank you letter to a veteran that an organization can deliver for you. It’s never a bad time to thank the living for the service, and it may make you appreciate those who lost their lives even more.
Parades. Attend a parade or event that celebrates Memorial Day. Many local governments and towns will organize events that provide great opportunities for you to honor those who served. These parades are usually appropriate for people of all ages too, so you can feel welcome to bring babies or young children to celebrate with you.
Flags. Buy some flags and decorate fallen soldiers' graves with American flags, or even just red, white, and blue. You can also decorate your house or lawn with these colors and flags, the same way you might for the Fourth of July. If you have a flag pole, you may also consider flying it at half staff on Memorial Day from dawn until noon time.
Flowers. If you’re not into flags or American colors, then decorate graves or your home with flowers to pay respects. You may also consider buying poppies from Veterans of Foreign Wars, the proceeds of which serves as a donation for state and national rehabilitation and service programs for veterans.
National Moment of Remembrance. Take a one minute pause at 3PM wherever you are to reflect on your freedoms, as well as those who died to give you those freedoms, while living in the U.S.
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Sources:
https://www.usinspect.com/blog/5-ways-celebrate-memorial-day/
https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/memorial-day-history#section_4
