Memorial Day ceremonies have been held every year around the United States since inception in 1868.
Memorial Day as we know it today was originally called Decoration Day.
It was started to honor the dead soldiers from the Civil War.
Honoring our Fallen Service Members
Today, we honor the memory of those who have died while in military service of the United States of America.
We pay homage to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice, held our flag high, and lifted the cause of freedom and liberty.
Celebrating Memorial Day
My friend and personal trainer, who is also retired Navy, let me know that he would be off this weekend celebrating Memorial Day.
I thought, celebrating… do we celebrate Memorial Day?
I know we grill up some yummy food, share time with friends and family, and we might have a couple of beers or cocktails.
But, do we celebrate on this day?
We do.
We celebrate the heroic lives of those lost, their legacy, and the freedoms we enjoy today.
Building on the Legacy of Freedoms Won
And, we cannot stop at celebration, for freedom is constantly under challenge, both at home and abroad.
As Americans, we must always stay engaged.
The men and women we honor today fought for our right to voice our opinions, beliefs, and needs, both in the public square and to those who act on our behalf in government.
It is incumbent upon us to convey to our younger members of society the importance of staying vigilant to the threats against our rights and our freedoms, both at home and abroad.
We must take the time to understand who we are voting for and the legislation that is being written and implemented on our behalf.
We must support our military through all actions asked of them and show care for them upon their return.
To this end, both the Elks and the American Legion have made great efforts to aid and support military widows and children, as well as active military, veterans, and their families.
We can and should do more.
But, for now…
Let us honor the memory and the legacy of those who came before us and who died in the name of freedom and democracy.
Let us also honor those who have fought and continue to fight, both military and civilian, for our country, its’ people, and the freedoms that we enjoy.
God Bless our military, our first responders, our government, and the people of this country.
Excerpted from the speech ‘Memorial Day: Honoring, Celebrating and Building On the Legacy’ given at the American Legion Post 416, Encinitas CA by San Diego Moms Blog Contributing Writer Lori Clark, who is also President of Encinitas Elks #2243, 2017-2018.
