Remembering...

{Memorial Day tribute}

A Tribute to America's Fallen Defenders on Memorial Day

Memorial Day invites us to pause and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives defending the United States. It's good for us to remember that this day is more than just a long weekend or the start of summer; it is a solemn reminder of their sacrifice, courage, and the cost of our freedom. On Memorial Day we honor America’s fallen defenders and keep their memories alive.

The Origins of Memorial Day

Memorial Day began after the Civil War as Decoration Day, a time when families decorated the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. Over time, the day expanded to remember all American military personnel who died in any war or conflict. The holiday was officially recognized by the federal government in 1971 and is observed on the last Monday of May.

This history reminds us that Memorial Day is rooted in respect and remembrance. It is a day dedicated to those who made the ultimate sacrifice, ensuring that their service is never forgotten.

Why Memorial Day Matters Today

Today more than ever Memorial Day offers a moment to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy and the price paid for them. Every flag placed on a grave, every moment of silence, and every ceremony is a tribute to lives lost in defense of our freedom.

Honoring our fallen heroes is not limited to official ceremonies, of course. We can all take part in meaningful ways:

• Fly the American Flag  

  Displaying the flag at your home or workplace shows respect and unity.

• Observe the Moment of Remembrance  

  Take a moment at 3 p.m. to pause and remember those who gave their lives.

• Learn and Share Stories

Read about the lives of service members and share their stories with friends and family. This helps keep their memories alive.

Remembering Heroes...

A Canadian brigade surgeon, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, wrote the poem "In Flanders Fields" in 1915, after the Second Battle of Ypres, Belgium, in WW1 -- a horrendous assault in which 124,000 soldiers perished.

McCrae became a fatal casualty of that war himself in January 1918. His haunting poem has been used at countless memorial ceremonies for over 100 years.

McCrae's poem is a powerful reminder of the tremendous sacrifices of all those who have given their lives defending our freedom.

“In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.