As Memorial Day approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a three-day weekend—beach trips, backyard barbecues, and the unofficial start of summer. But before you fire up the grill, take a moment to remember what this day is truly about.
Memorial Day is a time of remembrance.
It’s a solemn occasion meant to honor the men and women of the U.S. military who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. These heroes gave their lives so we could enjoy the freedoms and privileges that we often take for granted.
This isn’t just another holiday. It’s not “National Barbecue Day,” as social media jokes might suggest. It’s a day of reflection, gratitude, and respect.
How can you truly observe Memorial Day?
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Visit a local veterans cemetery and place flowers or flags.
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Attend a Memorial Day ceremony or parade in your community.
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Take a moment of silence at 3 p.m. local time for the National Moment of Remembrance.
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Reach out to a Gold Star family you may know and thank them for their sacrifice.
Enjoy your weekend. Celebrate with friends and family. But do so with gratitude in your heart—and an understanding that the freedom to gather, laugh, and live freely came at a high cost.
Let’s honor those who gave everything.
Never forget why this day exists.