Memorial Day may be marked by family gatherings and parades, but it remains a day to honor the men and women who gave up their lives while serving in the military.
The event, which falls on May 30 this year, is a national holiday that stems from an act of Congress, which recognizes the heroism of Civil War soldiers who died in action. It was initially called Declaration Day.
Thus, it’s proper to take time off from the Memorial Day revelry and honor the people this day was made for.
1. Observe a Memorial Day tradition
Join public ceremonies and the National Moment of Remembrance. Show your children how important this day is by observing a moment of silence at 3 p.m. as a way to the sacrifices of fallen soldiers. Take part in the red poppy for remembrance, inspired by Colonel John McCrae’s World War I poem, “In Flanders Fields,” which describes how poppies grow in the fields where dead soldiers lie buried.
2. Offer flowers or drape a forgotten grave with the flag
The country has 134 national cemeteries and a lot of state cemeteries for fallen soldiers. They are well maintained, but some of the older graves are bare. Take the family to an old grave and lay flowers on it. You can also place a flag on the grave. By adopting a grave, you can teach children lessons about why soldiers die in battle for the country.
3. Wear the colors of the flag
Honor the day by wearing the colors of the flag or the stars and stripes. Avoid using the flag itself as a clothing accessory.
4. Help a local veterans’ group
Show appreciation for living veterans. Some need health care. Others crave companionship . You can also donate your car to Vehicles For Veterans and get a tax deduction and free towing services. More importantly, you help disabled veterans.
5. Organize care packages for soldiers
Ask friends and family to donate a care package for soldiers. Fill it with essentials (socks, underwear, lip balm, sunblock), snacks, homemade food (cookies, cake in a jar), games (playing cards, poker chips, crossword puzzles), stationery supplies for writing letters and notes to loved ones, and greeting cards and personal notes of encouragement and support.
6. Visit a local veterans’ cemetery
Walk through the one nearest you and reflect on what the fallen soldiers did for the country with your family.
7. Learn the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day
Memorial Day is dedicated to fallen soldiers, while veterans’ day is for living military members.
8. Know all about Gold Star Families
Families of military personnel who have died in action are called Gold Star Families. It recognizes their grief and honors their service member’s heroism.
9. Get acquainted with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
This famous memorial at Arlington National Cemetery is marked by a white stone sarcophagus guarded all year round. It honors unnamed soldiers who gave their lives in battle.
Now more than ever, let’s not forget the men and women who died to uphold freedom and democracy in America and the rest of the world.
We at Pagnotta Homes join you in commemorating a meaningful Memorial Day.