Memorial Day

One of the things I love about Memorial Day and other "patriotic" holidays is putting out our little flags. This year the Little Guy got to help!

For the past several days I have been reading different articles, posts and tweets concerning Memorial Day. On top of that there were of course all the usual ads for "Memorial Day Sales." On Sunday, at a barbecue with some friends we talked a bit about the difference between Memorial Day, Veteran's Day and Armed Forces Day. As you may know, Armed Forces Day (21 May 11) is a day to honor those who serve in our Armed Forces; Veteran's Day (11 Nov) is a day to remember those who have served in our Armed Forces; and Memorial Day (last Monday in May) is a day to honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice while serving in our Armed Forces. 

One article said what I've been thinking about this Memorial Day, but did it in a much better way...Mr. Horton states that on Memorial Day "many incorrectly thank Vets or active duty folks for their service. While appreciated, it's misdirected. That's what Veteran's Day is for. Instead, they should take some time and remember the spirit of the country and the dedication of those men and women who chose to pick up arms. They never came home to be thanked, and only their memory remains."

I found the article through a Veterans Affairs tweet:

Veterans Affairs (@DeptVetAffairs)
5/30/11 7:23 PM
MT @USArmy: "When #MemorialDay Bleeds Across The Calendar." Read a @DeptVetAffairs blog from a #OIF #Vet: http://go.usa.gov/Dg6#Military