For decades, Americans have set aside one day every year to honor the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country under the US military. This day is called Memorial Day. Originally, this was holiday was known as Decoration Day which started after the Civil War. It was only in 1971 that it became a federal holiday.
People celebrate Memorial Day in different ways. Those who have lost someone visit their loved one’s graves and memorials. Some families hold family gatherings while some go out to watch the parades.
While all the fanfare is full of colors, fun, and grandeur, we need to be able to reach beyond that and remember the real reason for this special day. To ensure that the true meaning will not be forgotten, a resolution was passed for a National Moment of Remembrance every 3:00 p.m. on Memorial Day. This moment of silence is a simple moment of appreciation and remembrance for those brave individuals who have given their life in service of others.
Memorial Days marks a moment for people to reflect on the sacrifices of men and women in service, and while it may be for the dead and they may not be aware of what we do, we need to take this day to honor them and keep their memories alive through simple ways. What we do may create ripples of hope and service in others that will honor their memory more than any parade or gathering can do.
You can donate to veteran charities. These charities usually help out living veterans who need assistance after their service as they transition back to civil life. You can show national unity by flying your flag proudly outside your homes or offices. You can also volunteer your time doing acts of service in honor of the veterans, such as helping out in the veterans’ cemetery or helping your local churches or organizations who have activities for families.
And lastly, and more importantly, teach your children about the true meaning of this day. Tell them stories of family members who were part of the service or stories of heroes who have made a mark in history. Remember all these heroes in the spirit of reverence and merriment, just the way they wanted.
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This is one lesson from The Lost Ranger that is so important. The family of Staff Sergeant Hull had to and continues to endure the pain of what was first thought as a suicide for some seventy years. This pain caused by that original assumption permeated the lives of his entire family. Other families have likewise suffered horribly due to this topic across history, all wars, and all countries. Care for and love each other.
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