Many of us remember when Memorial Day meant watching — or marching in — parades, attending barbecues, and maybe even a fireworks show. But when attending these kinds of events isn’t possible, there are still some simple, meaningful ways to celebrate Memorial Day. Here are three ways to honor the day.
Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve
Well, just figuratively. One very easy way to show your support for military personnel, their sacrifices, and their families, is to wear our nation’s colors: red, white, and blue. Simply wearing these colors will show everyone that you are proud to be an American and have actively chosen to wear the USA’s “team colors” on a day that honors all that servicemen and women have done for our freedom.
Maintain a Moment of Silence
Another way to honor the day is by observing the national moment of silence at 3 PM. This nationwide effort is a time to pause, reflect, and pay respect to those who have given their lives in service to our country. Although it takes just 60 seconds of your day, knowing that you are part of a collective, quiet, movement that’s taking place all over the country… that’s a mighty powerful feeling.
Enjoy the Show
Experience a good ol’ Americana special and watch the National Memorial Day Concert on PBS, beginning at 8 pm EST, live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. This 30-year tradition honors servicemen and women by performing uplifting musical numbers and sharing inspiring, real-life stories and moving tributes.
This year’s showcase will include performances by The National Symphony Orchestra, The U.S. Army Chorus, The U.S. Navy Band Sea Chanters, The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, The U.S. Air Force Singing Sergeants, The Soldiers’ Chorus of the United States Army Field Band, and more.
For a fully immersive experience, plan a gathering with your friends and watch the concert together, such as in one of LCB’s state-of-the-art community movie theater rooms.
As you celebrate this day, let us leave you with a quote that Abraham Lincoln shared in his second inaugural address, “Let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan.”
Let us enjoy the day while being united in remembrance of those who have sacrificed for our country, and appreciation of all Americans and their families.