There is no "Happy" in Memorial Day

It’s a day of remembrance.

It’s the one day on the American calendar meant to exemplify what it costs to be American and to be free… and we’ve turned it into a day off work, a tent sale and a keg of beer.

Please allow me to step on my soapbox for a few moments.

This weekend, you really shouldn't say "Happy Memorial Day."

Now, let me start by saying that I'm sure I've said it - before I understood its intent and its meaning.

To be honest, we shouldn't be "celebrating" Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a holiday, and while the weekend is generally considered the "unofficial start of the summer season", it's not a holiday we should be "celebrating."

Yes, we should "observe" Memorial Day, or "recognize" Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a solemn occasion in which we remember people who died while serving our country in our Armed Forces.

Memorial Day, years ago, was often referred to as "Decoration Day." According to Wikipedia, "Decoration Day originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the war."

 By the 20th century, Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who died while in the military service.

I am part of the 99% who has not served our Country in uniform. My involvement as an ambassador with Boot Campaign for the past 10 years has introduced me to veterans who have given me a glimpse of what that service often leaves them with. This weekend can be difficult for them as they remember those that didn’t make it home.

Memorial Day is not meant to honor current or former servicemen and servicewomen who are still alive. We do that on Veteran's Day. (Although, it would be nice if we did that every day.) 

To the contrary, if you thank a veteran for their service on this holiday, they will likely reply, “Thank you, but this day is not for me, it is for those who have fallen in service of our Country.”

Finally, while this weekend will be one, hopefully, for great weather and fun, please take at least a moment on Monday to remember those who have died defending and/or fighting for the rights of our country.

God Bless America.

-Bill Hart