Memorial Day is the quintessential signal for the ending of school and the start of summer. It also has a far greater meaning . . . to honor those who have given their lives. Here are 5 ways to prepare for the significance of the day:
- Remember the actual purpose of Memorial Day: First celebrated in 1868 when a Union general declared May 30 as the day to decorate the graves of fallen Civil War soldiers, after World War I, Memorial Day became a holiday to honor Americans who died fighting in any war.
- Fly the American Flag: As an important symbol of our country and of Memorial Day, it’s important to understand the significance of flying the flag: fly the flag at half-mast, a position reserved for when the country is in mourning, until noon, before raising it to full mast for the remainder of Memorial Day.
- Attend a Parade or Community Gathering: Most cities and towns have a Memorial Day parade, which you can find out about in local news. You can also watch the National Memorial Day Parade, which begins at 2 p.m. in Washington, D.C.
- Participate in the National Moment of Remembrance: In addition to the President or Vice President laying a wreath on soldiers’ graves in Arlington National Cemetery each Memorial Day, POTUS also issues a Presidential Proclamation – Prayer for Peace on the annual holiday and calls for a National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time to remember and honor those who have died in service to the US.
- Pray with Hearts of Gratitude: Designate a moment of silence with your family to give thanks as we remember that, all gave some, some gave all, John 15:13. And then, take a moment to give thanks and to pray for those who are currently serving our country.
