Honoring Sacrifice and Patriotism:
The Essence of Memorial Day

Every year, as May draws to a close, Americans across the nation prepare to observe Memorial Day. This day, set aside to honor the men and women who have died in military service to the United States, is more than just a long weekend marking the unofficial start of summer. It is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals to ensure the freedom and safety of our country.

As I look forward to the coming weekend, I cannot help but think of my Dad and his service during the Vietnam War. He was fortunate to come home. However, some of himself was left behind in the valleys of Saigon. He was shot during wartime and lived his life with the visible reminder of his service. Yet there were wounds of the heart and mind that were not visible but remained a daily reminder of all he endured as a sacrifice for his country.

My Dad was (and still is, even though he now lives in heaven) my hero! He accepted the call and served his country with honor and dignity. He was proud to be an American; he loved our flag and the American freedoms that he fought for.

So, in honor of my Dad, I want to talk about the meaning of Memorial Day.

The Origins of Memorial Day

To fully understand its meaning, we must first go back to the beginning. Memorial Day has its roots in the aftermath of the Civil War, a conflict that claimed more lives than any other in American history and necessitated the creation of the country’s first national cemeteries. In the late 1860s, Americans in various towns and cities began holding springtime tributes to these countless fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and reciting prayers.

On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Northern Civil War veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance later that month. "The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion," he proclaimed. This date was chosen because it was not the anniversary of any particular battle.

Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day was established to honor those who had died during the Civil War. However, after World War I, the observance expanded to include all American military personnel who died in all wars. In 1971, an act of Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday and placed it on the last Monday in May.

The Meaning of Sacrifice

The core of Memorial Day is the recognition of the ultimate sacrifice made by soldiers. These brave men and women left behind their families, their dreams, and their futures to serve their country. Their sacrifices are a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom and the price paid for the liberties we often take for granted.

Every soldier's story is a testament to courage and patriotism. From the trenches of World War I and the beaches of Normandy to the jungles of Vietnam and the deserts of the Middle East, these individuals exemplified the highest ideals of service and sacrifice. Their willingness to lay down their lives for their fellow citizens is a profound demonstration of love for country and an unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy and justice.

Patriotism and Remembrance

Patriotism on Memorial Day is not just about waving flags and attending parades; it is about understanding and honoring the profound commitment of those who served. It is a day to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy and recognize that they come at a significant cost. This reflection can take many forms:

• Visiting cemeteries and memorials.
• Participating in community events.
• Simply taking a moment of silence to remember the fallen.

The National Moment of Remembrance, established by Congress in 2000, is observed at 3:00 PM local time on Memorial Day. Americans are encouraged to pause for one minute to remember and honor those who have died in military service. This act of collective remembrance reinforces the day's purpose and unites us in a shared expression of gratitude and respect.

Moving Forward with Purpose

As we honor the fallen on Memorial Day, we should also consider how we can support the living veterans and active-duty service members. Ensuring they receive the care, respect, and resources they need is an ongoing responsibility. Volunteering with veteran organizations, advocating for veterans' rights, and supporting military families are meaningful ways to show our appreciation and uphold the values for which so many have given their lives.

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance and a call to action. It reminds us of the importance of unity, service, and sacrifice. As we enjoy the freedoms afforded to us, let us never forget the price paid by those who have served and ensured their legacy lives on through our actions and commitments.

In remembering the sacrifices of the past, we find inspiration to build a future worthy of their legacy. This Memorial Day, as we honor the fallen, let us also pledge to uphold the principles of freedom, justice, and democracy for which they gave their lives.

I love and miss you, Dad, and I appreciate the sacrifice you made. I will remember and honor others just as you did when you were here. 

xoxo

Debbie