Memorial Day is a federal holiday that celebrates and mourns military members whom have paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect their country, our country. Memorial Day is not to be confused with Veterans Day. Memorial Day is to honor those who have lost their lives serving in the United States Armed Forces, while Veterans Day is to honor those who have and are still serving.
For most American Citizens, this holiday means a day filled with loved ones, cookouts, and laughter. However, for some, the weight of this day lies heavily on their shoulders and hearts. Military members of all branches make a commitment to protect this country, its citizens and their freedom with their own lives. Every day our veterans make sacrifices, some bigger than others. These sacrifices range from missing the birth of their child or holidays with their family to a loss of limbs, mental health and their life's. Although those serving to protect our freedom are fully aware of the sacrifices they will have to make, the gladly bear this burden like those before them with pride.
On this day, the least we can do is honor and remember those who've fallen defending our country. They deserve it. Like those before and after them, they were brave. Not brave meaning they weren't afraid, but brave in that despite their fear, they ran towards the fight. They were dedicated to not only their families, but all citizens of the United States. They were and still are honorable. They fought hard for what they believed in and played a huge role in the way all of us Americans live today.
Although Memorial Day is to honor fallen armed service members, don't forget to remember their families too. The families of our veterans sacrifice their traditional family life for a much harder one. Losing a family member is never easy, especially knowing they lost their life's protecting your freedom.
This Memorial Day, have cookouts with loved ones and lots of laughter, but don't forget to remember that Memorial Day is more than just a long weekend. Remember the fallen, always.