How to Celebrate Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a special day set aside to remember all those people who have died serving our country. On May 5, 1868 general John Logan, a commander of the Grand Army of Republic is the one who officially announced that May 30, 1868 would be the day for observing men who have sacrificed themselves during the Civil War. Eventually that day was extended to honor anyone who fought and died for our country in any war. Everyone use to take Memorial Day and remember it with honor such as by visiting the graves of those who have died in a war. However it seems the meaning of Memorial Day is slowly diminishing with river rafting, barbecues at the park and family trips. Many people don't even understand the true meaning of Memorial Day. They just see it as a day to take off and have fun. I think as a nation we can still have fun but it is important to take time and remember what Memorial Day really means. There are different things you can do to help restore the meaning of Memorial Day.

Have a local parade in the honor of those who have died serving our country. The parade can include pictures and names of those who have died. Uniforms that have been worn in different wars can be placed on a float. Everyone can take a moment of silence at the end of the parade to honor those who have sacrificed themselves for our country.

Have a Memorial Day party. At the party you can talk about the true meaning of Memorial Day. Have everyone bring something to the party that would symbolize the meaning of Memorial Day. For example, someone can bring movies related to the Memorial Day theme. Another person can bring pictures and postcards that show some of the solders that fought in a war.

Place a flag outside of your home. The flag symbolizes the people who have fought and died for our country. It not only shows that we remember but it is also a good way to remind others who pass your home.

Take a trip to a memorial museum. This is a great way to learn about those who have died in a war. You will get to hear stories and see pictures. Many times there are tours given by professionals who can answer any questions you may have.

On Memorial Day have a fundraiser. You can raise money to help the families who have lost a loved one to a war. Some fundraiser ideas are lemonade stands, concert at a café and a local car wash.

These are some things you can do to help restore the true meaning of Memorial Day.