There’s so much more to Memorial Day than barbeques and sales. It’s a time to honor and remember those in our military that gave the ultimate sacrifice and lost their lives in the line of duty. Have you ever thought about what you might be able to do on Memorial Day to commemorate these brave soldiers? Here are some ideas for Memorial Day kindness to get you started.
Kind Acts
Visit a military cemetery – Take time on Memorial Day to pay your respects to the fallen. You may even want to bring flowers to set on some unadorned gravesites.
National Moment of Remembrance – Whatever you’re doing, join others across the nation for a moment of silence and pause at 3pm for one minute and reflect on the sacrifices that were made for our country and our freedom.
Wear a red poppy – The red poppy is a symbol to remember those who died in conflict.
Watch the National Memorial Day Parade – Put on by the American Veterans Center, the parade is a tribute to fallen heroes starting at the American Revolution through current conflicts.
Lend an ear – Take time to thank those who have lost someone in service and let them share their memories of their loved one with you.
Places to Donate
We’ve included a list of a few of the many wonderful organizations that are serving military families who have suffered loss to help you get started – donate to these few or others that are close to your heart.
“America’s Gold Star Families is an organization created to provide honor, hope and healing to those grieving any military loss through active duty service. We include all family members representing all conflicts, all branches of service and all circumstance of death.”
National Military Family Association
“Through the support and programs we provide, and our respected voice on Capitol Hill and with the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs, our Association always looks out for the families who stand behind the uniform and for those who serve.”
Gary Sinise Foundation
“At the Gary Sinise Foundation, we serve our nation by honoring our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need. We do this by creating and supporting unique programs designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen, and build communities.”
Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation
“Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation’s mission is to provide college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. We are dedicated to serving the families of service members from all branches of the armed forces who have died as a result of combat casualties, military training accidents, service-related illnesses, suicide, as well as other duty-related deaths as ruled by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The vision of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation is to ensure that every child of a fallen patriot receives all necessary college funding. Since 2002, Children of Fallen Patriots has grown in its mission and vision to extend peace of mind through college scholarships to Gold Star families in all 50 states, in all branches of the military.”
Wounded Warriors Family Support
“Wounded Warriors Family Support provides support to the families of those who have been wounded, injured or killed during combat operations. The families of our casualties suffer in many ways: some financially, some psychologically. Wounded Warriors Family Support improves the quality of life of our military families through programs like caregiver respite, family retreats, mobility-equipped vehicles, job training, combat-wounded parking signs, and assistance with unmet needs.”
How will you honor and remember our fallen heroes this Memorial Day? Show kindness by taking time to make a difference or, if you can, make a donation to a military charity that speaks to your heart.
