Honoring Memorial Day: A Time to Remember and Reflect

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Honoring Memorial Day: A Time to Remember and Reflect
By: Luke Shaff ~ 5/22/2025

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As we head into Memorial Day weekend, it's important to pause and reflect on the true meaning of this national holiday. While many of us enjoy barbecues, parades, and a well-earned day off, Memorial Day is, at its heart, a time to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

A Brief History of Memorial Day
Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, began after the Civil War to honor Union soldiers who had died in battle. By the late 1800s, it became a more widely recognized day of remembrance for all fallen U.S. military personnel. In 1971, Memorial Day was officially designated a federal holiday and moved to the last Monday in May, giving Americans a long weekend to reflect and remember.

The red poppy flower also became a symbol of remembrance thanks to the famous World War I poem “In Flanders Fields”. Even today, you might see veterans or volunteers handing out red poppies in exchange for donations to support military families.

How Do You Celebrate?
While the somber origins of Memorial Day should never be forgotten, it’s also a time when families gather to honor those sacrifices by enjoying the freedoms they fought to protect. Whether it's attending a local parade, visiting a cemetery, hosting a cookout, or simply flying the flag at half-staff, everyone has their own way of paying tribute.

👉 We’d love to hear from you! What are your Memorial Day traditions? Do you attend a local event, have a moment of silence, or take a trip with your family? Share your stories in the comments below—let’s honor our heroes together.

Wishing You a Meaningful Memorial Day
From our family to yours, we hope you have a safe and meaningful Memorial Day. Let’s all take a moment to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice and thank the families who continue to carry their legacy.