Remember Them This Weekend

As the weather gradually grows warmer and another Memorial Day swiftly approaches, thoughts of barbecues and picnics begin to surface in our minds.

Many of us look forward with anticipation to the three-day weekend, taking advantage of the extra day off to do some traveling, or simply to catch up on some much needed relaxation. But more often than not, we forget what Memorial Day really means, and very rarely do we ask ourselves why we celebrate Memorial Day. Of course, those of you who have served in the armed forces or have family members who have done so are well aware of the history and meaning of Memorial Day, some of you painfully so. The media often makes a small comment in regards to why we celebrate Memorial Day, and newspapers often publish a small article, but otherwise the general consensus is that Memorial Day is a time for warm-weather fun and happy celebrations.

This is simply to remind those of you who need reminding that Memorial Day was originally not so much a celebration as it was a day of solemnity, a day of respect and remembrance for those who have served their country and have died doing so. Regardless of whether you support the current war or not, or even the previous wars throughout history, the fact remains that hundreds of thousands of soldiers went to war for the United States of America. They fought hard and they fought well, and they fought for reasons that may or may not have been righteous. But they pledged themselves to the cause, because they believed in the United States, and they believed in themselves as a soldier.

And they died for it.

Memorial Day was first established in 1868 in order to honor the soldiers who had fallen during the Civil War. It was initially only recognized by first New York and then the remainder of the northern states, and wasn't followed by the south until after World War I. While many states at that time typically had their own specific days of remembrance, (and some still do), Memorial Day became has become the national standard.

Unfortunately, over the years, many Americans, especially those who have been untouched by war and the strife it causes, have forgotten what Memorial Day truly means, despite the fact that "memorial" being the very title of the holiday is a pretty significant clue.

Many of my relatives served in WWII but I really never could comprehend or understand the sacrifices that they made until my husband and I attended the WWII Memorial Dedication in Washington DC. Thousands of veterans and their families flew to DC to attend the ceremony. We were honored enough to meet a Medal of Honor recipient on our flight from Denver to DC. It was truly awe inspiring to witness the respect, admiration and generosity bestowed upon these people throughout the week-long festivities. I can remember watching the ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and crying my eyes out along with the hundreds of other people in attendance. The day of the actual dedication ceremony we sat among thousands of veterans and their families and the feeling of unity and patriotism was overwelming. It made my heart swell with joy and pride that I was blessed enough to attend such a historic event.

So, this weekend, take a few moments to remember why we celebrate Memorial Day. If you have a veteran in your family give him or her a call and thank them for everything that they have done for our country.