Honoring Memorial Day
As we once again approach Memorial Day, the day devoted to the remembrance of those who have given their lives in service to their country, we’d like to share ways in which your family can honor the sacrifices of servicemembers and their families. The fully-virtual events that took place last year have given way to some in-person observances, but your family can still choose to participate in the manner that feels most comfortable to you.
First and foremost, if you have a veteran or veterans in your life, please take some time this weekend to check in with them. For many servicemembers, this holiday is a particularly difficult one, and sharing your love and appreciation is a small action with a large impact.
If you’re interested in learning more about the day, a great place to start is USAA’s Memorial Day website. They have put together a really beautiful tribute including videos, a craft for kids, and a digital version of the Wall of Honor that was installed on the National Mall in 2018 and 2019. You can even add a virtual poppy to the wall in the name of someone whose sacrifice you would like to recognize.
Another event accessible no matter where you live is PBS’s Memorial Day Concert, which will be airing on Sunday night. This star-studded night of personal stories and musical performances will be streamed from 8 to 9:30 Eastern Time on a variety of platforms.
If you’d like to participate in Memorial Day in person, there are a few things happening in Phoenix on Monday. From 6 to 8 am, RidersUSA is hosting their 15th annual Memorial Day Rally at the National Memorial Cemetery at Pinnacle Peak & Cave Creek Rd. There will be a gathering of motorcycles, hot rods, and lots of flags to welcome military families into the cemetery, where they will be participating in a private wreath-laying ceremony. After this event, the cemetery is open to the public until sunset – and the same is true of the other VA national cemeteries around the country.
Another location where you can pay your respects in person is the Pioneer & Military Memorial Park, a group of cemeteries in Phoenix that is open for free, self-guided tours from 9 am to noon. The park has been decorated for the occasion and is a great place to meditate on the meaning of the day.
Whatever else you choose to do on Memorial Day, take some time to fill your heart with gratitude for those who have offered their lives for their country, those who have given their lives for their country, and the families who miss them. If you know of other Memorial Day events or resources that you’d like to share, feel free to post them on our Facebook page.
