[KS circutguy]

Memorial Day, in the United States, holiday (last Monday in May) honoring those who have died while serving in the country’s armed forces. It originated during the American Civil War when citizens placed flowers on the graves of those who had been killed in battle. The first national observance was in 1868. After World War I, the name was changed to Memorial Day, and in 1971 it became a federal holiday. The day is observed by visits to cemeteries, where flags and other items are placed on the graves of veterans. There are also parades and ceremonies. In addition, Memorial Day is considered the start of summer in the United States.
That is all.

[salem1912]

We owe so much! God bless those that made the ultimate sacrifice and the families they left behind.

[The Champ]

We were able to spend the past week with our grandson, home from Okinawa. He's been stationed there since January of 2022 and should be rotating back to the US in early 2027. He is an Osprey crew chief.

Fifty years ago, I was in the middle of 39 months in Germany before finishing my career at the Pentagon.

Both my grandfathers served in Europe in WWI. Three uncles in WWII. Thankfully, everyone made it home.

[thepontiacman]

Thanks for posting!

Freedom is not Free...

[prostreet64]

Originally Posted by thepontiacman

Thanks for posting!

Freedom is not Free...

How true. Very sad that businesses think this is a time for a "sale". We dishonor those who gave the last measure for their country. We have not taught our children what Memorial Day is really about. Hopefully on Monday each of us will reflect on what is really important about the Day.

[PunchT37]

Man, I thought it was about buying a mattress?

[carbking]

Thanks for posting.

Would guess MOST folks, other than veterans (unless they research the subject) do not know the difference in Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

Locally, the two are celebrated in a similar manner.

Most folks locally celebrate Memorial Day by placing flowers on the graves of all of their departed loved ones. This makes sense, as most flowers are in season. Also, flags are placed on the graves of ALL veterans.

Memorial Day seems to be more somber (as it should be). There are no local parades. There are sales, but fewer than many other holidays. Events include fireworks displays..

Veterans Day features many more parades (schools are back in session). Many local food establishments furnish free, or substantially discounted meals for all living veterans or active members of the armed forces.

On a personal note, for the first time in a long time, we were able to acquire US flags MADE IN THE USA locally for the cemetery for which my family tends. For quite some time we have had to special order flags. I simply cannot place a flag made in China on a veteran's grave; seems like an insult.

Jon

[fyrffytr1]

There are actually 3 holidays honoring the military. Memorial Day is to remember and honor those who died in service to our country.
Veteran's Day is to remember and honor those who served, but made it home.
Armed Forces Day is to honor those currently serving. It is a national holiday observed on the third Saturday of May.

[ta6point6]

When I finally finished basic training the Drill instructors played Lincolns Gettysburg address for us and told us to remember if not all the words at least the ending. The profoundness of that day sticks with me when reflecting on the 13 Service members who have lost their lives in this current Iran War.

It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."