Each May on the last Monday, we take a break from our busy lives to commemorate Memorial Day. While this has come to mean many things to some of us such as the start of Summer, a day to gather with friends and families for a cook out, or even a day to place flowers at the graves of a loved one; we should not forget the purpose of Memorial Day. Memorial Day is often confused with Veteran’s Day, but it was enacted as national holiday to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Veterans Day is a day to honor all who served, not just those who died in service. Those remembered would include Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, or members of the Coast Guard who died protecting our country.
I would encourage each of you to remember our fallen heroes or take time to thank the surviving family should you know one this Memorial Day. It is customary for the flag to be flown at half-staff from sunrise till noon to pay tribute to our deceased veterans, then to full staff to recognize all veterans for the remainder of the day. I would encourage all businesses to recognize this custom. Additionally, the entire nation has been asked to stop at 3 p.m. and offer a prayer for our Veterans who paid with their lives. Where possible taps will be played. Please pause and remove your hat. If a veteran, salute the flag. If not, place your hand over your heart. As a final note, our local American Legion Post will conduct a Memorial Day service at 10 a.m. at the Highlands Veteran’s Plaza (Rain or Shine). All Veterans and the public are welcome.
Throughout our nation’s history, the liberties we value and our nation’s sovereignty were defended by those who heeded the call to serve in one of the branches of our military. Those who died deserve the honor of being remembered this Memorial Day. We are forever in debt to their sacrifice.
- Tom Neal
US Army Veteran