Memorial Day is not a day to say Happy Memorial Day, but what is it?

It’s one of those days when the usual holiday greeting that is preceded by the word “Happy” really doesn’t fit. It’s not really a joyous day. Memorial Day began as Decoration Day which was a day to honor military personnel who died as a result of fighting in wars or later due to war injuries. These brave people fought for the freedom of their fellow U.S. citizens.

Many people today honor Memorial day in two other ways. Some use it to remember anyone who has died and that is seen by the flowers placed at graves all around the country. Some use it to remember and place a flag on any veteran’s grave and to share that person’s story in print and conversation.

Veterans Day is always November 11th and was a day designed to honor all who have served in the U.S. military.

From the website of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs:

“Q. What is the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?

A. Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. While those who died are also remembered, Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor ALL those who served honorably in the military – in wartime or peacetime. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank LIVING veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served – not only those who died – have sacrificed and done their duty.”

What do I really feel we should remember on either day? All those brave men and women who have fought for our freedom or who have provided related service. Yet, there is something about a special day to honor just those who lost their lives in battle or related activity.

I have an uncle by marriage who lost his life as a POW in 1951. He was killed in the POW camp in South Korea and to this day, his remains have not been found. Gerald J. Mueller was married to my mother’s sister. She never forgot him. She stayed close to his family. I don’t remember Jerry, but I do remember his mother, brothers, and grandparents. Maybe some day, his remains will receive a proper burial.

I have a first cousin, once removed who was a POW in Burma during WWII. Robert Leon Hanley did survive but as with Jerry, I shudder to think of the agony of suffering of these relatives.

My own father served in WWII and didn’t like to talk much about it. I have yet to visit his grave at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. I just can’t do it.

I will memorialize these important family members any old day, too!

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