There Is a Difference Between Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day

Memorial Day 2019 is upon us. Where has the year gone? It is the unofficial beginning of summer. It is a holiday for many with family picnics featuring hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, the opening of swimming pools and being with family and friends. More importantly, it is a day of remembrance.

In 2000, Congress passed the “National Moment of Remembrance” resolution which asks all Americans to “observe in their own way a moment of remembrance and respect, pausing (at 3 p.m. local time) from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps' for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice."

It seems that many Americans nowadays confuse Memorial Day with Veterans Day. On Memorial Day we honor those who died in service to their country and others who have passed away.  Veterans Day in November is to thank those who are alive and served our country. Even the media has trouble recognizing the difference.

There is evidence that the South is the birthplace of Memorial Day in that organized women’s groups in the South decorated graves before the end of the Civil War. Initially it was called "Decoration Day".  Memorial Day is all about reconciliation. It is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.  God bless their souls!

Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day are both very special holidays, but there is a big difference.