Traditional Ways to Observe Memorial Day

Memorial Day is, traditionally, a day of mourning to honor American veterans. It began after the Civil War and was formerly known as Decoration Day. In 1971, Congress changed it to a mandatory three-day weekend at the end of May. Now, many of us celebrate an extra day off and the beginning of summer, rather than honoring the veterans who died while defending and protecting our country.

Show your respect, thank a veteran and then celebrate your freedom in their honor.

Traditional Ways to Observe Memorial Day (preserving its true meaning):

Fly your flag at half staff from dawn until noon.

Observe a moment of silence at 3 P.M. EST.

Attend a parade and/or a prayer ceremony. (Check your local newspaper for events

happening in your area.)

Stand up during the National Anthem, remove your hat, and put your hand over your heart.

Bring flowers or a flag (or both) to your local cemetery and decorate a veteran's grave.

Better yet, organize a group (at work or school, or in your neighborhood) to decorate the graves of forgotten veterans.

Explain the history and importance of Memorial Day to your children.

Visit http://www.usmemorialday.org/act.html and sign the petition.