Memorial Day 2015

All gave some... some gave all.

I have always found it strange to wish someone a Happy Memorial Day.  I can never bring myself to say those words.  Yes, we all look forward to the first long weekend that marks the unofficial beginning of summer and the first barbecue of the season, picnic, trip to the lake... or the Indy 500.  But, while all of those things make Memorial Day weekend a fun time, we need to remember the real meaning of Memorial Day... a day to remember and honor those who died protecting the rights we cherish. 

As I have done in past years, I'd like to share some information about how Israel honors its fallen heroes.  On Yom Hazikaron, the Israeli Memorial Day, a siren is sounded twice throughout the country during a 24 hour time period, from sunset to sunset. The first siren marks the beginning of Memorial Day at 8:00 p.m. and the second is sounded at 11:00 a.m, before prayers are recited at all military cemeteries.  When the siren is sounded, the entire nation observes a two-minute standstill of all traffic and daily activities.  For the entire day, all places of public entertainment are closed and all radio and television stations play music appropriate to the mood of the day and broadcast programs honoring fallen soldiers.  Everyone participates in honoring those who died serving their country. 

As we enjoy time with family and friends on this Memorial Day, let us be sure to take time to honor the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms we cherish.

And, as we remember those who died in service to our country, let us give thanks to those who are serving now and to all our Veterans for their past service to our country. 

MEMORIAL DAY LINKS:

Memorial Day History
American Widow Project
The Origin of Sounding Taps 
Arlington Rememberance by Trace Adkins
Buglers at Arlington National Cemetery