Memorial Day is Monday, May 31st. For many, this means time off work, cookouts, lakes and the start of summer. However, the true meaning of Memorial Day is much more than just this.
Memorial Day honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. This solemn occasion is a time to reflect on these patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting and defending the country.
American Indians and Alaska Natives serve in the Armed Forces at five times the national average. Indigenous people have steadfastly served in the Armed Forces for centuries – even fighting in the Revolutionary War. In addition, 32 Indigenous people have been awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military achievement.
So – one may wonder – how do you properly acknowledge this day? A few ideas include:
- Volunteering to lay flowers or planting flags at your local Veterans cemetery
- Sponsoring a thank you wreath though the Memorial Day Foundation
- Flying the American flag using proper mourning etiquette
- On Memorial Day, the flag should be flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon only, then raised briskly to the top of the staff until sunset, in honor of the nation’s fallen heroes
- Visiting a military memorial, museum or monument
- Attending a Memorial Day parade, if any are happening in your community
- Posting a tribute to a fallen hero on social media
It’s important to note that you do not have to wait for Memorial Day, or any national holiday, to show your gratitude to our service members. Any day is a good day to support those involved.
For more ideas on honoring those fallen, keep updated! We will be providing additional resources to enhance your knowledge on Memorial Day through the week.
