Thank you for returning to Common Sense Civics and Citizenship. We take a look at two issues (in the newsletter and on the website) close to my heart-children and war heroes. I hope you find these articles helpful and inspiring.
“Every day is Memorial Day at Arlington National Cemetery,” says Executive Director Karen-Durham Aguilera. Indeed, it is. I think the same could be said of many who have lost a loved one- the husband, wife, son, or daughter who faithfully served our country and is now laid to rest. For them, every day is a day to remember.
Americans don’t forget our heroes. We keep their memory alive by opening the summer season remembering their sacrifice. There are picnics, parades, and family get-togethers. There are also memorials and solemn ceremonies to mark the time and reflect on serving and giving one’s life for a cause greater than themselves.
I was in Arlington, VA, recently during very inclement weather. I thought of those entrusted with the honor of guarding the very special Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. What a commitment! What an honor to serve our heroes in this way!
You may remember when the public was first invited to approach the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at its Centennial celebration last year. Ms. Aguilera remarks that the event deeply impacted the crowd. Officials decided not to wait 100 years to renew the opportunity. On Memorial Day, May 30, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the public is once again invited to approach the Tomb of the Unknown and place a flower at the site. (no vases or wreaths).
In addition, the Army’s third infantry regiment will put flags on every single grave at Arlington National Cemetery. There will also be the traditional wreath-laying ceremony. Ms. Aguilera reports that even the rehearsal for this ceremony is moving. Try to catch coverage of the Joint Forces and the Army team as they perform their tribute on Memorial Day.
Do you have loved ones who paid the ultimate sacrifice? I asked this question to a friend this morning. I couldn’t believe all of the family members she listed. She then proceeded to tell me how her husband took his WWII veteran father back to Guam to retrace his steps there prior to his passing. She told me how the people of Guam were so kind to her father-in-law during the war and again during his visit.
If you have a loved one(s) who paid the ultimate sacrifice, accept my deepest gratitude for their service to our country. It means everything.
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship. 🇺🇸
