For many of us working on a regular basis, next Monday is a welcomed day off. I’d be lying if I said I was not looking forward to a three-day weekend.

Along with getting some beach time in, I’m planning on going to one or more of the Yankees-Padres games this long weekend. It isn’t often I get to see one of the teams from my childhood play on the other side of the country.

That said, no matter what I have planned or everyone else does next Monday, take some time to think about why you may well have the day off in the first place.

While we all know it as Memorial Day (Congress in 1971 officially made the last Monday in May the day to recognize all the military men and women killed in the line of duty), the holiday was initially known as Decoration Day.

Not long after the Civil War ended, Decoration Day became an annual event to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers from the nation’s bloodiest conflict. 

Fast-forward to today, Memorial Day has different meanings to different people.

Whether you’re hitting the beach, having a cookout with family and friends, taking a trip somewhere etc. keep in mind what this day means.

Putting on the military uniform in this country is something one volunteers to do, especially since we have not had a draft in many decades. That said, it is a big step in the lives of the men and women choosing to do so.

Much like police officers, firefighters and other high-risk jobs, being in the military comes with risks. 

From the potential of training accidents to being injured or even killed on the battlefield, countless men and women have given their lives for this country over the decades.

Take a moment this long holiday weekend to show your thanks for those having made the ultimate sacrifice. 

Remember, it is the least we can do in their memory.

Crédito de la foto: Pixabay.com