It's Memorial Day in the United States.
As most Americans will be enjoying the day off from work today, I wanted to write and acknowledge that our very ability to enjoy a holiday came at a very high price, which was paid for by those who gave their lives in conflict.
Previously known as Decoration Day, this is not a day of celebration. It's not intended to be a day for parties, boating or barbecues.
It is a day of commemoration, specifically set aside to honor those who died in wartime and military conflicts. The former name comes from the tradition of decorating soldiers' graves in cemeteries with flags and military insignia as a way of showing the community's respect and gratitude.
That tradition continues today, and tens of thousands of grave sites have been marked by Veteran organizations including the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion, as well as other adult and youth organizations plus local communities of faith.
While not of us are able to participate in an event at a cemetery, I do encourage everyone to take a pause at 3pm local time, and participate in the National Moment of Remembrance.
This event started in 2000 asks all citizens, wherever they are at 3 pm, to stop and pause for a minute in silent tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.
Use that moment to reflect and think about where our freedom comes from.
Have a very blessed Memorial Day.
(credit: U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser/Arlington National Cemetery)
Very nicely done.
Regards,
Scott
Very respectfully, Jeff Link