Memorial Day is often a forgotten holiday. We all get the day off from work, enjoy the long weekend, maybe go camping, have a few cold ones, hang out with friends and head back to work on Tuesday. We often forget the true meaning of Memorial Day and forget to celebrate and remember all that it stands for. For many Memorial Day means much, much more than a long weekend off from work.

The last Monday in may is reserved to remember all of those who have lost their lives in order to keep ours safe. It's a day to be thankful for those who are willing to risk everything in order to protect our country and be sure that it remains the land of the free. It's a day to hug your family and friends a little tighter knowing they are safe.

For others, the day brings nostalgia and pain. It's a day for some to remember their loved ones who never returned home and fill their gravestone with flowers so it looks as beautiful as their life was for all of the ceremonies that weekend. It's a day they say "I know he is watching over us." And it's a day they remember their loved one they have lost.

This Memorial Day takes the time to remember why we have this long weekend. Send veterans you know a letter or flowers just to show them a little extra appreciation you have for all of the sacrifices they have made. Stop by a cemetery in town and see all of the blooming gravestones families planted in memory of their beloved veteran. Lastly, just be thankful that you and your loved ones are safe wearing the red, white, and blue.

Don't get me wrong, it should also be a time of celebration. Other should celebrate the amazing life and opportunities they have for all of those who have fought overseas. So enjoy that camping trip or beach day and be sure to raise your class, to all of those saving our (butt) overseas.