Remembering the true meaning of Memorial Day
Not to be confused with Veterans Day, Memorial Day is a day set aside to remember and honor a very select group who have served.
Remembering the true meaning of Memorial Day
A three day weekend filled with BBQ's, fun and the Indy 500. So what is behind our fun-filled weekend?
Most people know it has something to do with remembering the people serving or who have served in the military. Some confuse this day with Veterans Day, a day honoring all veterans.
This day was set aside to remember and honor a very select group who have served. Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Formerly known as Decoration Day, it originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the fallen Union soldiers of the Civil War.
By the 20th century Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died in all wars.
No one likes war, least of all military personnel. We know what the costs are more than most. Yet we train, prepare, and hope the day never comes. However if or when the time comes, we step up to serve. Some give their life, the ultimate sacrifice, in that service. Those men and women are who we remember today.
Many people observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 pm local time. People often place American flags on each gravesite at national cemeteries.
So while enjoying the day off, please take at least a moment to remember the true meaning of the day to say thanks to those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.
Never Forget.
These thoughts were written by James Livingston, Major (USAF Ret). Jim was taken from us in February, 2017, after a brief bout with cancer, and just weeks after unexpectedly losing his beloved wife Connie. May they both rest in peace.
Photo of Dayton Memorial Park Cemetery by don lawrence photography.
To see official events around Dayton, see: Memorial Day around Dayton.
