Memorial Day is much more than vacations by the lake or beach and barbecues; it’s a time to reflect on the meaning of service.
For most Americans, Memorial Day conjures up the beginning of summer—barbecues, trips to the lake or beach, pool time, and warm weather. But Memorial Day is so much more than the unofficial start of summer. It’s a day to recall the meaning of service as we honor and remember those who died protecting our great country—the sacrifices of the few for the freedoms of the many.
The military has been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’m a 20-year veteran of the Army National Guard. The youngest of my two brothers followed in my footsteps and actively serves in the Air Force. I’ve had several uncles, grandfathers, great grandfathers, and many others throughout my family lineage serve and sacrifice their lives while serving in the military.
Whenever Memorial Day comes around, though, I’m reminded of how the holiday feels a little different than other “days off”. Perhaps it’s because of the tsunami of emotions I feel at military funerals when paying respects to those who died in service to our country. Or the emotions I feel when laying flowers at the foot of a headstone of a fallen soldier. Or maybe it’s because I think of the families who grieve over the loss of a husband, wife, son, or daughter that left us too soon. In every interaction, their strength and courage are overwhelming, and I’m struck by their unshakable pride in their fallen family members and in the values they died to protect. These families embody servant leadership, and they deserve our gratitude for their depth of bravery and altruism. Every time a soldier makes that ultimate sacrifice, a family is left behind.
I’m proud to be associated with Opportune LLP, my employer, who understands the importance of servant leadership and giving back to the community. Whether it’s in the form of volunteering at the Houston Food Bank, aligning with a charity event in support of a cause like the Texas Center For The Missing, or mentoring young people at various Junior Achievement events, the act of selfless service among our people shines through every day!
Perhaps the trials of the last two years during the pandemic can give us a fresh perspective this Memorial Day. I think we can all agree this period gave us some degree of feeling depressed or lonely because of isolation from friends, family, and colleagues. So, as life begins to return to normal, remember those whose family reunions will still be incomplete. Remember those who are still on the front lines, and those who will go to sleep thinking of the threats their family members constantly face halfway across the world.
As we prepare to put those hotdogs or hamburgers on the grill and sip our favorite beverage by the lake, pool, or beach, remember that selfless service shouldn’t be viewed as just a one-day commitment; rather, it should be a value we exhibit and put into action every day. May you and yours have a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day!
Want to do your part in honoring our fallen heroes this Memorial Day but not sure what to do or where to start? Below are a few things to consider:
- Display The Flag – The U.S. flag is flown at half-staff from dawn until noon on Memorial Day. Some people also choose to fly the POW/MIA flag to honor prisoners of war and those missing in action. CLICK HERE
for more information on tips for flying the flag.
- Visit A Cemetery – Honor the memory of a family member, friend, colleague, or acquaintance by putting flowers on their grave. CLICK HERE to find veterans cemeteries near you.
- Join The National Moment Of Silence – Pause wherever you are at 3 p.m. for a moment of silence to remember and honor the fallen.
- Attend Local Parades – Many cities and towns have Memorial Day parades to remember those who gave their lives for our country. (Note: Throwing candy can sometimes be viewed as disrespectful).
- Wear Red Poppies – Red poppies are worn on Memorial Day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war.
