Don’t let this Memorial Day be only about having a day off of work and enjoying a cookout. Those who paid the ultimate sacrifice so we can be free deserve our honor, respect and a special time of remembrance.
Take some time to focus on the true meaning of the day with these 10 ways to honor Memorial Day.
1. Display the American Flag
On Memorial Day, the U.S. flag is customarily flown at half-staff until noon. If you have a flagpole, raise the flag to the top in the morning before lowering it to half-staff. Otherwise, display your flag on a stand or outside your door for the day. You might also consider showing support for prisoners of war and those missing in action by displaying the POW/MIA flag.
2. Observe the National Moment of Remembrance.
Most people don’t know about this, but it’s worth including in your day. Congress first recognized this tradition in 2000, which calls for a moment of silence at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to honor and remember the sacrifices of our fallen heroes. Be sure to include your teen and remind them of why we have so many freedoms today in the United States.
3. Share a Tribute on Social Media.
If you have a relative who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country, take some time this Memorial Day to share a tribute to this family member on social media. Putting a face and a name to this holiday is very impactful. Most people don’t associate the sacrifices made and the freedoms enjoyed with specific people. Sharing how your family has been affected will make a big impact.
4. Visit Gravesites.
Originally named ‘Decoration Day,’ Memorial Day was established to honor the nation’s war dead by adorning their graves with flowers. Many families commemorate the day by arranging floral displays and visiting the gravesites of their loved ones and ancestors together.
5. Explore a National Battlefield or Memorial.
Memorial Day is an opportunity to visit and learn about national memorials in Washington, D.C., and local memorials across the country.
6. Explore History.
Memorial Day is ideal for delving into family records, viewing old photographs, and discovering more about ancestors, particularly those who served and sacrificed for their country. It’s also a fitting time to read historic speeches like Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and other patriotic addresses by presidents and military leaders. Be sure to include your teen is this powerful time.
7. Watch the National Memorial Day Concert.
You can watch the National Memorial Day concert on PBS or tune in to the live broadcast on the Sunday evening preceding Memorial Day. Check local listings for airtimes and additional broadcasts.
8. Visit a Veterans Home or Hospital.
Many American veterans require ongoing medical care or housing support, and Memorial Day offers an opportunity to show appreciation for their service. Visit these facilities and express gratitude to the veterans and their families for their sacrifices. Bring along flowers or cookies and include your teen in serving others and showing appreciation.
9. Support Military Families.
This Memorial Day, offer prayers for families who have lost loved ones and for the well-being of our armed forces. Consider gathering your family and sending personal messages of thanks or thoughtful care packages to active-duty troops or those recovering in hospitals and rehabilitation centers. You could also provide mentorship or assistance to military family members seeking employment. If you feel called to do so, consider getting involved with support groups for grieving families who have lost loved ones in service.
10. Learn More.
Knowledge is power! Visit usmemorialday.org and www.memorialdayfoundation.org to learn more about Memorial Day’s significance and discover ways to honor the lives of fallen heroes. Share what you discover during your family picnic or cookout and be sure to share what you learn with your teen!
Make this Memorial Day your best one yet with these 10 ways to honor Memorial Day! Don’t let the opportunity pass you by to take your honor, respect and patriotism to the next level and encourage our young people to do the same.
