I know this topic might be covered a lot this weekend, but I thought I would throw this onto the pile and add my perspective. Memorial Day is a day in which we take an opportunity to remember and commemorate the sacrifices made by those who have fallen in the wars fought during the 233 year history of the United States.
I am providing this diary as a resource for those who want to commemorate the fallen but don't know how they can. The link below is to a list of Memorial Day ceremonies at various VA national cemeteries across the nation.
List of Memorial Day Ceremonies at VA National Cemeteries
Many cities around the country also have ceremonies. Use a search engine and type in "memorial day ceremonies in [your town]" and you'll get links to ceremonies near you.
If you can't make it to a ceremony but you still want to do something there are other options for you. I've listed some links below.
Charity Navigator list of military charities and their ratings
National Moment of Remembrance
VFW Memorial Day Speech
Now for my perspective. If you're going to a barbecue this weekend please take some time and impart a little knowledge and wisdom onto those around you. Remind them what Memorial Day is for. Its not just the start of summer or grilling season.
With war comes sacrifice. With the particular wars we wage today, the sacrifice is borne by a very miniscule segment of the population.
Here are links to a couple of other Memorial Day diaries here on Daily Kos, check them out.
More than a Long Weekend
A Meditation on Memorial Day: "The Four Forty Second"
Memorial Day.....Memories and Memorials for Those We Lost.
$5.25 to Support the Troops
What is Memorial Day? w/poll