Today is Memorial Day. For people who are working, it is a much-welcome three-day weekend. For children it is time to head to the swimming pools and parks. For many, it will be a day filled with activities and fun, culminating in a picnic this evening.
In the United States, Memorial Day is a day set aside for remembering all those who died while in service to our country. Known as "Decoration Day" in the past, it was originally for remembering the Civil War dead. Now it is for remembering those who died in all wars.
In our little town, Memorial Day competes with the White Squirrel Festival, Brevard's largest street festival. However, for those willing to arise a little earlier, we mark Memorial Day much the same as other cities and towns. Marching to the county courthouse, veterans carry flags to fly and wreaths to set at the memorials to the fallen. Only when this service is ended does the White Squirrel Festival begin.
The small cannon in on the courthouse lawn.
Wreaths at the monument
So on this Memorial Day, stop and reflect on what it means to give one's life for country. And think of those who have lost loved ones and had their lives altered forever. Spend several minutes giving thanks for those brave men and women.
As President William Jefferson Clinton said,
"There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured with what is right with America."
Now, you may grab your hot dog or chicken and enjoy the day.
HAVE A SAFE MEMORIAL DAY!!!
REMEMBER WHAT YOU ARE HONORING TODAY
7 comments:
It is always good and important to remember the real meaning of this day. Thank you for that.
Hi, Great post; Happy Memorial Day to you.
Noreen
I remember.
Happy Memorial Day!
This post is a great reminder that today is about more than parades and food and a long weekend. We owe a great debt to our servicemen and women who give so much to keep America safe. Hope you have a good day.
You are so right and I do remember every time I see a man in uniform, but make an effort on this special day.
Thanks for making Memorial Day memorable.
Good post -- sometimes it seems that Memorial day is all about cookouts.
Post a Comment