How to Honor Veterans and Soldiers this Memorial Day
by: Melanie Farley
Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, and for many of us, a time to celebrate with backyard barbecues, boating, or even shopping for Memorial Day sales. Spending quality time with family and friends is a meaningful way to celebrate, but it’s important to honor our fallen soldiers and veterans as well.
Memorial Day offers us an important reminder that freedom comes at a cost. Read on for 3 ways to get back to the true meaning of Memorial Day.
Participate in a Memorial Day Tradition
Over the years, a variety of Memorial Day traditions have developed from various parades and ceremonies to the National Moment of Remembrance.
Even if you are busy the rest of the day, a simple way to honor our soldiers on Memorial Day is to participate in the National Moment of Remembrance. Simply take a moment of silence at 3pm on Memorial Day. You will be joining Americans from all over the country, who take a moment at 3pm to reflect in their own way.
Decorate a Grave with Flowers
Did you know that there are 155 national cemeteries in the U.S? In addition, there are dozens of state cemeteries where soldiers and veterans are buried. Although these cemeteries are well maintained, many of the older graves have haven’t seen a decoration in years.
So, even if you don’t know a fallen soldier personally, you can “adopt” an older grave. Then you and your family can bring flowers to the grave as a Memorial Day tradition.
Support Living Veterans
Although Memorial Day is a time when we honor fallen soldiers, you don’t have to wait until Veteran’s Day in November to support living veterans. Many veterans need help accessing healthcare and other basic services, and so many others simply need companionship.
There are so many great resources for veterans in Philadelphia and the surrounding regions. From crisis support help lines to housing support services and more, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
A Final Word…
While Memorial Day is a fun day to spend celebrate with family and friends, it’s important to get back to the true meaning of the holiday as well. Whether you spend a moment reflecting on the sacrifices our soldiers have made, or a whole day, it can be rewarding to honor those who have served our country. And, don’t forget to support our living veterans as well!
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