Summary
In the United States, today is Memorial Day, a day we set aside to remember those who have sacrificed for our nation and our freedom. While most people typically use it to relax or travel, here are four ways you can honor those who have served and sacrificed.
Listen
Links
Transcript
Today is Memorial Day in the United States, a day we set aside to remember those who sacrificed for our nation and our freedom. Memorial Day is usually considered the beginning of summer and a day for grilling out and enjoying a three-day weekend, but it’s important to take some time today to remember the sacrifice of our fallen soldiers.
Here are four things you can do today to honor those who have given their lives for our country.
First, participate in the National Moment of Remembrance. At 3 p.m. local time, take one minute to stop and remember our fallen soldiers. If you’re with others at 3 o’clock, encourage them to do the same.
Second, make a virtual visit to Arlington National Cemetery. Of course, I recommend visiting in person if you can, but a virtual visit every Memorial Day will remind you of the price paid for freedom. You can also watch a PBS filming of the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Third, don’t forget the loved ones that were left behind. If you know someone who lost a loved one, take a few minutes to send them an encouraging word. And if you have a little extra money, consider donating to a charity that will support the families of our fallen heroes.
And fourth, if your town doesn’t already have one, consider organizing a Hometown Heroes Banner Program for your community. This program puts up banners honoring those who have served in the military. In my hometown, the banners are put up just before Memorial Day and taken down just after Veterans Day, but other cities may display them for different times.