Did you pause today to remember & thank the soldiers who sacrificed their all?
Today is not only the end of a 3 day weekend, it's a holiday designated to give honor to those who died in wars for our country. It began at the end of the Civil War. As years have passed, it's also evolved into a day to remember all of our loved ones who have passed away. Many place flowers on graves. Some just talk about their family members & friends.
Blessings to our military! And remembrance to family & friends who are no longer w/us. I hope your day was filled w/parades, picnics and friends & family. Just wanted to mention the original meaning of this day.
Actually saw your question before, did I dream that? Anyway, it prompted a lovely conversation with my hubs, about relatives who served, and spun into a more general discussion about all that have done so and the sacrifices that they made. We also gave a moment to reflect upon what dangers they have protected us from, because it is so easy to be complacent about that, and we shouldn't be. Thanks for the reminder.
I spent the afternoon yesterday at a national cemetery with my Cub Scout son, putting flags on each gravesite. Over 4000 were there to remember and honor the heros who served. It was a great way to remind the next generation that our freedom has been won, and re-won, over the years by individuals doing their part to make sure the rest of us can live our lives.
@pickypickypicky: Errrr, yes I posted something similar. It was deleted today. I'm sure it was inadvertant. :-/ Did want to repost it again because it IS a special day. Sometimes we get caught up in the 3 day weekend thing. Or woot's new design. Or whatever. Glad that it started a conversation. :-) I've been reflecting on my late husband, my parents, grands, and way too many friends who are gone.
Yes, The battles we've fought and the hero's we've lost make me tear up for my pride of country and countrymen. As a vet and civilian serving with soldiers overseas currently I am proud. It is always humbling when a c-130 comes in to pick up the fallen.
I spoke briefly with an elderly veteran at a store, but didn't do what I should have to honor our Vets. Thanks for the reminder(s) of what the day is supposed to be about.
@belyndag: Today was the day to honor the fallen.
ANY day is a good day to thank a vet. You'd be surprised at the reaction when you do this. Next time you see someone wearing a hat, jacket, or shirt that indicates they're a veteran, go over at a time that isn't intrusive, and mention you saw they were a veteran, and you want to thank them for their service. Last time I did this was to a Vietnam vet in his late 60's eating dinner at Sizzler with his wife. The guy was shocked, and very grateful for the appreciation. It was a great learning experience for my 3 young kids as well.
@sskarstad: I applaud you for the time you spent with your son, instilling values that should be important to all of us.
To me, it was a day to honor not only those who have fallen, but also those who have served and survived. In particular, my Father and three Uncles who served during ww2. One Uncle a highly decorated flying ace, and another Uncle whose plane was shot down over the English Channel near the beginning of the war and spent a lot of time in a POW camp (the same camp that "The Great Escape" movie was based on). Proud of myself and a brother who enlisted during the Vietnam conflict (me, Army - him, Navy). Also proud of my baby brother who graduated from the Air Force Academy (and is now retired).
We marched in the parade.
A wonderful way to 'thank' or acknowledge a person in uniform....Place your hand over your heart & then extend that hand out towards them. It is a way of saying "Thank You" for your service. Have done this in airports. It is SO amazing & rewarding. Always understood. I always get a nod & a big smile. Heartwarming.
I always think of those who served the country in our armed forces on days like Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, and Independence Day. I didn't go to any events on Monday so I didn't thank them personally but I am sure I'll bump into some today as I return to work at a US Military facility.
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