Memorial Day is a time to pay respect to the service men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.
Memorial Day originally started as Decoration Day just after the Civil War. It is meant to honor those military members who died. In more than 200 years, more than 1.3 million Americans lost their lives in battle. The holiday is different from Veterans Day – the 11th day of the 11th month – which is meant to honor all of those people who have served.
Not All Fun and Games
Though it’s great to use Memorial Day weekend as a time to get together and have fun with family and friends, you also shouldn’t lose sight of the meaning behind the holiday. Over Memorial Day weekend, in addition to the fun and games at your backyard barbecue, you should also remember the history of the holiday and take part in community events such as parades and memorials. Read books and watch movies about our nation’s servicemen and women. Contact your parks and recreation department and local library to find out about other community events for families during Memorial Day weekend.
Celebrate and Have Fun
Though Memorial Day is a day of remembrance, it’s also a time to enjoy the company of family and friends, and celebrate our nation’s freedom. Deck out your backyard in red, white and blue and invite family, friends, neighbors and co-workers to spend the day celebrating.
We honor those who have given their lives to protect this land… and we salute you this Memorial Day!