We hope you are enjoying the celebratory nature of day, while remembering the reason why it is on the calendar.
This weekend signifies some key things to America. On one hand, it is regarded as the unofficial start to summer. Many schools (grade school/college) ended (or are about to end) their spring/year terms and students return to the world for summer actions. Community pools and summer-associated activities look to this weekend as the kickoff for their season. Setting aside the commercialization of this weekend (is any consumer-based business not running a sale right now?), it can be a moment of joy in a world that is not exactly teaming with reasons for celebrations. Given that this is a football site, Memorial Day also means the promise that just over two months from this weekend, training camps open and the next NFL season awaits.
Yet, there is the other significance of the weekend, one that can get overshadowed by all the hoopla over the start of the “American Summer Season”. Since the end of the US Civil War, and officially since the mid-20th century, the 4th Monday in May equals Memorial Day, when the nation recognizes the sacrifice of those who fought and died under the American flag. From the Revolutionary War to the current day, over 1.2 million Americans paid the ultimate price. There will be the requisite parades, the laying of wreaths and other outward shows of emotion and recognition. While the primary focus for this day is the honored dead, Memorial Day is also a chance to recognize those that fought and survived as well (even as we have another day on the calendar specifically dedicated to veterans in November). A time to rally around the flag, celebrating what is great about America, but mindful of the cost to achieve those celebrations.
Hopefully this finds you able to take advantage of the celebratory nature of the weekend, but also able to reflect and consider the underlying reason for this particular American holiday. This may not be the easiest of times for some, as they reflect on those who can’t join in the celebrations, so be mindful of those folks. In some respects, it can feel a little uncomfortable to outright say “Happy Memorial Day,” given the somber nature of the day. Yet, if you honor the sacrifices paid, then it can be a celebratory remembrance. As always, we at Battle Red Blog ask you to celebrate responsibly. We want to see y’all back here after the holiday in the same or better shape than when the weekend started.