Eight ways to honor our fallen heroes on Memorial Day
Eight ways to honor our fallen heroes on Memorial Day
We were a crew of sailors and Marines, milling about, waiting to participate in downtown Denvers Memorial Day Parade. A bunch of kids in "A" school (first training school in lingo) wishing we were back in our racks sleeping instead of squinting in the morning sun.
A Marine in the the uniform hed worn in WWI walked the sidewalk in our direction, his step spry, his bearing proud, as it should be for a man able to wear his uniform after over fifty plus years. He stopped in front of our group, did a smart right face and saluted. No words. He didnt need them. He moved on.
We sharpened up. That soldier had seen more of war, of life, and of service to this country than the whole crew of us could ever imagine, and he had paid us respect.
Memorial Day is more than the holiday heralding summer. It is a time when our nation reflects with gratitude on the sacrifice so many in uniform have made.
Memorial Day is more than the holiday heralding summer. It is a time when our nation reflects with gratitude on the sacrifice so many in uniform have made.Flags will be lowered to half-mast until noon and communities will be holding services and parades to honor our military.
But what can each of us do to keep the true meaning and spirit of Memorial Day alive? Here are a few suggestions:
1. Take part in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 pm
Wherever you are, stop, and give a minute of your time for awareness or .
2. Be a part of your community
Before firing up the barbeque, attend one of those parades or commemorative services. Most cities will hold concerts. If yours doesnt, you will be able to catch the televised National Memorial Day Concert on Capitol Hill Sunday evening.
3. Purchase a poppy from a VFW member
They usually sell them for a donation in front of shopping centers. Tie a poppy to your purse or your lapel as a reminder to all of us that this isnt just a day to find great deals on .
4. Blast the Sousa
Make a patriotic music playlist and hang the red, white, and blue. This is the day to fly our nations flag but dont stint on the bunting either.
5. Keep your familys personal military history alive
Over the picnic table, share stories of family members who served this country. Wearing the uniform calls for sacrifice but it is also an amazing adventure and one that deserves to be documented. If you have someone willing to reminiscence, turn on a recorder or jot down notes. Dont let your familys story disappear into the murky haze of memory.
6. If you are a Veteran, please, take a moment to write your own history
Some experiences you may not feel willing to share but as time passes, your perspective might change and we, as a nation, can gain from your insight. Plus, those service ribbons and commendations and the insignias that you earnedgather them up and please keep them safe. Digitizing letters written during that time or might not be a bad idea either.
7. Donate to a charity that supports our military in ways our government doesnt.
A good list with information and ratings as to the effectiveness of the charity is at Charity Navigator .
8. Volunteer
If you feel called to do more, consider helping the USO in its mission to help active duty personnel and their families. The VA Hospitals also always need volunteers. For more information, you can contact the USO here . You can learn more about volunteering at your local VA Hospital at http://www.volunteer.va.gov .
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Thank you toour Heroes, then ,now and in the future!!
I have honored our fallen with 7 out of your 8. Thanks for your thoughtful list!
BRAVO Perrie! I'm sure that is appreciated by many....thank you!
Wonderful list Tzia. I'm done all of them, and will continue to do as many as possible.
BRAVO KAV! I'm not surprised at all. You are a true Patriot!! Thank you for your service...
While I've done my best to help Veterans,,.....As a Veteran one of the most touching moments in my life was when a total stranger (family) who reconized me, came up to me in arestaurant and asked permissioon to buy my meal for me.....That was a Hallmark moment for me.....
That was a Hallmark moment for me That will be something you will never forget I'm sure. Sometimes it's the unexpected that leaves a huge impression on us.
Thank you for your service to our country!