Some think of Memorial Day as the unofficial start of summer, and spend the day off work at the pool or on a lake, drinking and grilling.
Rather than partying it up, it's important to remember the reason for Memorial Day. Memorial Day has a very different purpose than Veterans Day. Let's look at the differences.
Memorial Day
"Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle," according to the Veterans Affairs website.
All over the country, graves of fallen soldiers have been decorated with flags. Families are visiting their fallen heroes and paying respects.
Veterans Day
"While those who died are also remembered, Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor ALL those who served honorably in the military - in wartime or peacetime. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank LIVING veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served - not only those who died - have sacrificed and done their duty," according to the VA website.
You will commonly see people wearing the red poppies on Veterans Day.
Please remember the significance of these days, and remember the reason for the day before saying, "Happy Memorial Day."