While there is nothing wrong with enjoying a day off, it is important that we all take the time to reflect on the true meaning of the holiday.
While there is nothing wrong with enjoying a day off, it is important that we all take the time to reflect on the true meaning of the holiday.
M emorial Day is the federal holiday in the United States that honors those who have lost their lives while serving in the U.S. military. It has a deep history and significance that goes beyond just being a day off from work or school. It is important that we all remind ourselves of that and the true meaning of Memorial weekend.
The origins of Memorial Day go back to the end of the Civil War. In the years following the end of this devastating conflict, towns across the country began decorating the graves of fallen soldiers to pay tribute to their sacrifice. The first official observance of Memorial Day was held on May 30, 1868, when General John A. Logan declared it a day to “decorate with flowers the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion.”
Over the years, Memorial Day has evolved to encompass all those who have died while serving in the U.S. military, including those who fought in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. It is a time to reflect on both the individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice and their families, and to show our gratitude and support for those who continue to serve today.
As a retired marine and CIA paramilitary officer with four goddaughters who are all Gold Star daughters and a son who is currently serving on active duty, I make sure that honoring our nation’s fallen heroes is never far from my mind. I know the same is true of my fellow veterans.
Unfortunately, in recent years, Memorial Day has become increasingly associated with the start of summer, barbecues, and other recreational events. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying a day off, it is important that we all take the time to reflect on its true meaning. Fly your flag, stand extra tall for the national anthem at the local baseball game, and take time to say the Pledge of Allegiance — something that shouldn’t end when you are an adult.
It is very important to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Their actions have allowed us to enjoy the freedoms and privileges we have today. Without their bravery and dedication, we would not be able to live in a free and democratic society, and we would not have the opportunities that we and our children have in this country.
Another reason to honor those who have died in service to their country is that it keeps their memory alive. By taking the time to remember these individuals and their sacrifices, we are ensuring that they are never forgotten. We are also sending a powerful message to future generations about the importance of serving one’s country and the value of putting others before oneself. It is time to get back to the days when we collectively asked what we could do for our country instead of just asking what our country could do for us.
Honoring those who have died in service to their country is also a way to show our support and gratitude for those who continue to serve. The men and women who are currently serving in the U.S. military, our intelligence community, and diplomatic corps deserve our respect and admiration for the sacrifices that they are making on our behalf. They are the legacy of these fallen heroes.
President Kennedy said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.” Our fallen heroes have given us examples to live by. I will spend the rest of my life trying to live up to those examples. I humbly suggest we all do.