Honoring Sacrifice: Memorial Day

The last weekend in May is often heralded as the unofficial start to summer with a full itinerary of beach trips, pool parties and cookouts. While for many Memorial Day is a celebratory three-day weekend, the holiday is meant to be a time of reflection to honor the lives of military members who made the ultimate sacrifice.

President Johnson designated the last Monday in May as Memorial Day and made it a federal holiday. Many cities will hold official events that may include parades or concerts in honor of the fallen service members. Additionally, volunteers will often decorate gravesites with flags or wreaths.

In fact, this holiday has historical roots that reach back to the years immediately following the Civil War. The "decoration days" were an important part of the healing process for the country torn apart by years of war. Initially, civic groups would lay wreaths on the gravesites or memorials and spend the day in fellowship with outdoor picnics. That tradition is still evident today in the remembrance events held each year.

With more than one million service members losing their lives in a time of war, it’s important that we take time out of our lives and come together as a country to remember their sacrifice and the sacrifice of their family.

If it isn’t already a part of your Memorial Day weekend plans, try following these tips to honor the true meaning of the holiday.

Show Your Respect

Look into events that your local community has planned for the holiday. Find time during the three-day weekend to attend a parade or memorial service at a nearby military memorial.

Get Educated

Is your understanding of the American military lacking? Do some research and increase your knowledge of the service branches. Another idea is to watch one of the many movies or documentaries about the history of the military. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself and become familiar with the different medals of honors and what they represent.

Pay Tribute

While it’s important to pay tribute to the military members who have lost their lives protecting our country, it’s not too late to show your appreciation. Take time to visit a veteran. You could always make a donation to an organization that helps vets, or better yet, spend time listening or serving the people who dedicated their lives to military service.

Tune In

Each year several entertainers and musicians come together to put on an excellent concert on the lawn of the Capitol in Washington, DC. Even if you can’t make the trip to see it in person, you can tune into the concert and watch it live on TV or listen to it on the radio.

Memorial Day is an important holiday and is a day when the country comes together to honor the lives that have been spent to keep our country safe. Be sure to incorporate a moment of reflection and honor as you welcome the start of summer.