11 Ways to Honor Our Fallen - Memorial Day

With this year being very different due to the current pandemic our world is in, Memorial Day 2020 will certainly stand out as a unique day in history. While adhering to the guidelines of the CDC about social-distancing, the guidelines set forth by your local (city and county), and by your state to slow the spread of COVID-19, here is a list of ways to still honor the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

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11 Ways to Honor Our Fallen:

1. Educate yourself on, What is Memorial Day?
A quick internet search can turn up many five-minute articles explaining why we observe Memorial Day and how it is different from other military holidays.

2. Proudly hang and fly an American Flag on your home
There are flag and pole kits that can be purchased online or stores that can be mounted onto your home. Please make sure, as proper etiquette and a sign of respect, the American flag does not have any rips, frays, or discoloration.

3. Take a moment to observe silence
This can be done at any time during the day. Simply take some time to quietly give thanks to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

4. Write a letter expressing your thanks, that can be delivered at a later date
If you are unable to currently visit the cemetery, you can write out your thoughts on a piece of paper and seal it until you are able to deliver it at the soonest opportunity.

5. Watch a movie or documentary that pays tribute to our U.S. military
There are dozens of movies and documentaries that have been made over the decades. Check out this list by We Are The Mighty or head over to Netflix for WWII and The Vietnam War documentaries.

6. Learn about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Located at Arlington National Cemetery, this iconic memorial honors the deceased U.S. service members whose remains have not been identified.

7. Investigate your families military history
Has anyone in your family ever served in the U.S. military?  Talk with family members about their time in the service. If you come across a great story from WWII, the USO is currently collecting personal stories and photos from veterans and family members in honor of the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII.

8. Learn about Gold Star Families
Dating back to WWI when the phrase "Gold Star Families" became known for families of military members who have died in the line of duty.

9. Donate to a Veteran Organization
There are many organizations you can donate to who dedicate time and resources to veterans and their families during a time of need:

• Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS)
• Wounded Warriors Family Support
• Fisher House Foundation
• Hope For The Warriors
• USO
• Semper Fi & America's Fund

10. Visit a War Memorial virtually
Since we are unable to travel, last year the USO went out and captured 360-degree videos of war memorials throughout the capital region. Check them out here!

11. Visit a Veteran Cemetery while adhering to social-distancing
If you would like to visit a local veteran cemetery, I advise calling ahead of time as many locations are either closed, have shorter visiting hours, or are only allowing family members to schedule a visit.

I hoped this informational list helps make your Memorial Day easier to observe this year. My extended gratitude goes to all the brave U.S. service members and their families. God Bless America.

(PLEASE make sure to research what your city, county, and state guidelines are BEFORE leaving your home. There are several ways to honor our service members without having to leave your home. Be safe!)

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