Memorial Day weekend is usually a lot of fun for many families. You get to enjoy a three-day weekend, you can grill, go to the lake, travel together as a family, hit up a sale, and lots of other fun things. However, I think many of us tend to forget what this weekend is really about: the ones that lost their lives fighting for our freedom.
What is the Difference?
Something that really bothers me every time this holiday comes around is the fact that many people do not know what they are celebrating. I see many posts from individuals thanking Veterans for their service. While I know that they mean well, this is not what this holiday is about. This holiday is to honor the men and women that made the ultimate sacrifice. It is to remember those that never made it home.
Veterans Day
Yes, it is important to thank and honor our Veterans. However, they have their own holiday on November 11th every year. This is the day that is set aside to honor those that served our country and we are still blessed to have with us. My husband is a Veteran, and he will be the first to tell you that he does not want to be thanked for his service on Memorial Day.
Why Does it Matter?
Thanking a Veteran for their service on Memorial Day can make them feel awkward. They know that you mean well, but they also know that this holiday is for their brothers and sister that they fought beside that never made it home. Memorial Day can be hard for many Veterans. Did you know that some Veterans may struggle with survivor’s guilt? You can read more about that here. Thanking a Veteran on this holiday may bring up emotions that they do not want to experience.
Armed Forces Day
There is also a holiday for the men and women that are still serving our country. A lot of people like to thank those that are still serving on Memorial Day and/or Veterans Day. However, this should not happen either. Armed Forces Day falls on the third Saturday in May every year.
How to Celebrate Memorial Day
I think it is a good idea for everyone to set aside some time on Memorial Day weekend to attend a ceremony, place wreaths or flags on tombs at military cemeteries, do something special for a family that lost a loved one, or spend time remembering loved ones that were lost in your own family.
Today We Honor…
Army Sgt. Joseph M. Tackett died June 23, 2005, serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Army Sgt. Christopher J. Taylor died July 24, 2005, serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
These two men served with my husband. They made the ultimate sacrifice, and we will forever be grateful for their service.