I remember the first time I learned what Memorial day was and what it meant. I was in 4th grade, standing in the back of the gym during a school play. My dad was filming the play (my sister or brother must have been in it). Before the play started they asked all the Veterans to stand up. I asked my dad what they were doing and why we were clapping for them. It was Memorial day weekend, and we were honoring those who served and died for our country.
Andy linked to a nice site with information on Memorial Day, and one of the links caught my eye:
I’ve always tried to reflect on those who have served and died for our country, pray for those who now serve and their families, and we have a picnic with family. But beyond that I have not really done anything in observance, but would like to begin a tradition with my family now.
These are some of the suggestions for observing this holiday:
– by visiting cemeteries and placing flags or flowers on the graves of our fallen heroes.
– by visiting memorials.
– by flying the U.S. Flag at half-staff until noon.
– by flying the ‘POW/MIA Flag’ as well (Section 1082 of the 1998 Defense Authorization Act).
– by participating in a “National Moment of Remembrance”: at 3 p.m. to pause and think upon the true meaning of the day, and for Taps to be played.
– by renewing a pledge to aid the widows, widowers, and orphans of our falled dead, and to aid the disabled veterans.
The photo is from the World War II Memorial in Washington DC. It is a fairly new Memorial, and there is tons to look at. There are several other Memorials in the vicinity as well.
Thank you to those who have served our country, and thank you to those who serve today.
