Memorial Day isn’t just an opportunity for a barbecue or beach trip. It’s a day honoring American soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Sadly, less than half of Americans truly know what the meaning of Memorial Day is. More than 1.1 Million Soldiers died in war. That is 1.1 Million men and woman who fought for your freedoms so you can have that BBQ or beach trip.
We all live busy lives and while we all should know Memorial Day is important, doing even little things to commemorate the day often alludes us. A great way to honor these men and woman and to show appreciation for our freedom is to join in one of the many events happening in your area.
How can I honor them, you say??? Here are a few ideas that you could easily fit into your weekend.
1. You could attend one the many parades or ceremonies that are taking place
Billerica will be having a graveside services on Sunday the 29th - Meet at 8:30am VFW Wm Eggo Post 2597, Boston Rd Pinehurst
Billerica’s parade starts at 10am on Monday the 30th with a ceremony immediately after - Parade route starts at the Marshall Middle and ends at the Library
2. You could volunteer to place flags at the headstones of veterans
Billerica is meeting at Fox Hill Cemetery at 9am on Sat the 28th
3. You could stop what you are doing at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day which is the official National Moment of Remembrance.
4. You can wear a red poppy as they are known as a symbol of remembrance and it is a tradition to wear them to honor those who died in war.
5. You can donate to a charity that supports our veterans
6. You could volunteer at a local VA hospital (Bedford VA is not that far!)
7. Or simply, display your flag! Fly our Red White and Blue Banner in pride. The colors are symbolic. The White signifies purity and innocence, Red, hardiness & valor, and the Blue above the stripes signifies vigilance, perseverance & justice.
Freedom and Liberty will always have a price and it has been paid in blood by so many. It continues to cost the lives of those so eager and willing to pay for it. That cost must be honored lest we may each have to pay an equal price.
Are you aware of how many memorial sites there are in Billerica where you can visit and pay your respect?