All across America, people eagerly await Memorial Day weekend.
Hailed as the unofficial start of summer, it’s often thought of as a time for celebration and parties. But it’s important to keep in mind that the holiday is actually a somber one, meant to honor the many brave men and women who put their lives on the line to defend our freedoms. It can represent a challenging time for those mourning the loss of a military veteran, even if they passed on many years ago. In this article, we have compiled some meaningful Memorial Day tributes for those who deserve our utmost gratitude and respect.
Enjoy a time-honored Memorial Day tradition or check out a new one
As COVID restrictions begin to ease, many places are scheduling Memorial Day parades and other public festivities. Do some research to see what your locale has to offer on this special holiday. You can check out Visit Delaware to find a long list of upcoming area attractions and events, including concerts, beachfront festivals, and more.
Visit your loved one’s final resting place
A poignant way to honor your departed veteran this Memorial Day is by visiting his or her gravesite, the location of his or her cremated remains, or some other place of personal significance. Leave a fresh bouquet or an American flag as a symbol of your enduring love and remembrance.
Buy a poppy of remembrance or wear something red
The red poppy is worn on Memorial Day to remember the fallen and honor our living United States soldiers. Inspired by the 1915 poem "In Flanders Fields", the American Legion even adopted this crimson flower as its official symbol of remembrance in 1920. Today, veterans can often be spotted outside of supermarkets and convenience stores on Memorial Day weekend, offering handmade red poppies crafted from paper-mâché. If you come across a "red poppy post", please offer a generous donation and proudly display it in honor of your loved one. You can also wear a red garment or another seasonal flower to indicate your remembrance.
Take time for quiet reflection
The National Moment of Remembrance resolution was passed in 2000. It asks that all Americans “voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of Remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to Taps” at 3 PM on Memorial Day. Use this time to silently reflect on the many sacrifices made by military men and women to secure our freedoms and defend our nation.
Make a difference
Many military heroes are in need of assistance, whether it's in the form of clothing, food, or companionship. Veterans’ agencies and national organizations are always seeking financial support. Visit Charity Navigator to view a list of reputable charities that are in need of assistance. Choose a cause that's most relevant or important to you, such as wounded soldiers, grieving families, veterans with PTSD, or others. The list is extensive so you are sure to find something that’s near and dear to your heart.
At Evan W. Smith Funeral Services, we work closely with military families to preplan and develop distinctive memorial services and other moving tributes to celebrate their loved ones. If you need assistance planning a funeral for a beloved service member or are seeking additional ways to pay tribute to a departed veteran, please contact us anytime
About Evan W. Smith Funeral Services: Since 2009, residents of Wilmington, Dover, and the surrounding Delaware community have relied on the caring staff at Evan W. Smith Funeral Services to help them through their darkest hours. Family-owned and operated, the company offers an array of elite funeral care services, including traditional funerals, cremations, memorials, pre-planning, and more. With decades of experience in caring for families from all cultural backgrounds and diverse walks of life, Evan W. Smith Funeral Services is committed to creating memorable, uplifting experiences that always exceed expectations. For more information, please visit www.ewsmithfs.com.
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