Every year on the last Monday of May, the U.S. pauses to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in military service. Memorial Day is more than just a long weekend. It is a solemn reminder of the price of freedom and the ultimate sacrifice made by Armed Forces members. Many tend to mix up the meanings of Veterans Day with Memorial Day, and vice versa, so it felt only fitting to help teach the true meaning of Memorial Day and how to celebrate the heroes that we remember on this sacred day.
Understanding the True Meaning
Unlike Veterans Day, which celebrates all who have served, Memorial Day is specifically set aside to remember those who died in service to their country. It is a day to remember that some who put their name on the line, raise their right hand to swear to protect our nation, end up making the ultimate sacrifice in defense of this nation. It is a day for reflection, remembrance, and gratitude.
Ways to Honor the Fallen
Does the idea of wishing someone a ‘happy’ Memorial Day feel wrong? The alternatives can be wishing someone a meaningful or somber Memorial Day so that they know that you take this day seriously, and it is not just another weekend to go outside and barbecue. However, just because we are remembering our Fallen, it does not mean that you cannot celebrate the sacrifices of great men and women.
Attend a Memorial Ceremony or Parade
Many communities hold parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, or special services at local cemeteries or memorials. Attending one shows support and helps keep the memory of the fallen alive. You can generally find a memorial area around a local VA hospital, at or around a military installation, or just check local event guides for these parades or ceremonies.
Visit a Veterans Cemetery
Placing flags, flowers, or tokens of remembrance at a grave site is a deeply respectful way to pay tribute. Even if you don’t have a direct connection to someone who served, visiting a national or local veterans cemetery is a powerful gesture. Places like these are hallowed grounds for service members, veterans, and their families, so be sure to tread lightly and respectfully.
The Department of the VA has a list on their website of all of the National VA Cemeteries.
Observe the National Moment of Remembrance
At 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, Americans are encouraged to pause for a moment of silence to honor those who died in service. This quiet reflection unites us in shared gratitude and remembrance.
Support Gold Star Families
Gold Star Families are those who have lost a loved one in military service. They live with the sacrifice every day. Reach out, donate to support organizations, or simply listen to their stories. You can donate directly through the Gold Star Families website or find a local chapter or organization that supports them. These families
Share Stories and Memories
Some organizations take time before their activities on Memorial Day to talk about the fallen. You can help remember and spread the legacy of those who have paid the ultimate price. Research and learn about a fallen service member. You can respectfully share their names and stories so their legacy continues. Remembering them publicly is one of the most powerful honors we can give.
Educate the Next Generation
If you have children, you can invite them to learn about the true meaning of Memorial Day. This doesn’t have to be a sad experience, because kids can learn about the bravery that these men and women embodied. Teach children and young adults about the significance of Memorial Day. Helping them understand the real cost of freedom ensures these sacrifices are never forgotten.
Fly the Flag with Respect
On Memorial Day, the U.S. flag should be flown at half-staff until noon, then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day. This honors the dead in the morning and salutes the living in the afternoon.
A Day of Purpose, Not Just Leisure
While it’s natural to spend time with loved ones, host barbecues, or enjoy a day off work, remember why we have the freedom to do so. Take a moment amid the festivities to reflect on the sacrifices that made it possible. The Gold Star Families of this country will carry their fallen loved ones with them every single day. We, as a country, should be able to spend a moment remembering our fallen heroes.
It feels like more, now than ever, we need to come together as a country and remember the ideals, values, and heroes that made and make us great. Memorial Day is that day. It is a call to remember those who laid down their lives for something greater than themselves. In honoring them, we reaffirm our commitment to the values they fought to protect: freedom, unity, and hope.
Let us never forget the cost of liberty. Let us always remember the fallen, not just on Memorial Day, but every day.
