Let’s be real here, you guys; Memorial Day isn’t meant to be all fun and games. Don’t get me wrong, absolutely take the time to enjoy your extra day if you have an employer who allows it. Just make it a point always to remember what the fallen have gone through for you to have what you have.
Stephanie Baum with Aloft Strategic Communications sent me information specifically about women in the military, who we are lucky are still around, and who take such a unique role in handling the responsibility of being just that: women in the military.
This short video, “Homecoming: Veterans, Wives, and Mothers,” is a must-watch for everyone. These women stand up for their country, only to be knocked down by their comrades or people in higher jobs. (This doesn’t always happen, obviously, but it still shouldn’t be ignored.)
This video explains that so many women veterans come home wounded or with severe PTSD, who end up homeless and completely unable to help themselves.
So, be careful; show respect; understand what this “holiday” truly represents! The short film, is available on Sofy TV. Here’s a preview for you, though! Highly recommend!
Where did Memorial Day originate?”
Originally known as Decoration Day, General John A. Logan coined the name in 1868 (information pulled from History.com). He claimed, “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.”
Today is to help Americans remember the loss of their soldiers who perished during the Civil War only. It wasn’t until later, when the USA had been in other conflicts, that the day evolved to include all American men and women who perished during those wars. In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which created what we now know as Memorial Day, turning it into an acknowledged three-day weekend for federal employees. (All information obtained from History.com).
The Poppy
It is also interesting to note how many people adorn their clothing with a simple red poppy to mark their knowledge of Memorial Day. The poppy came to be from World War 1. John McCrae was a surgeon during WWI who witnessed the first use of chlorine gas by Germany. He saw the bright red poppy’s all around the carnage and decided to write a poem to describe the fallen soldier. (All information obtained from History.com).
“In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
This haunting piece reminds us of the torment so many have gone through and paid for with their lives. I hope that the brave men and women who are no longer here to see how we celebrate their lives somehow know that they are so very much appreciated. It is an honor to tell a soldier or a veteran, THANK YOU.
A year ago today, I wrote about Memorial Day and mentioned several soldiers’ who had given their lives. I’m sure their families still honor their memory, and to anyone else who has family who has given their life for this country, you’re a better person than most.
Thank you,
Love to you all, and I hope today was a special day for you and yours,
Kelly Ann
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