With the bustle of graduations, family reuions and general hubub that accompanies Memorial Day weekend festivities, many people will get so caught up in the celebrations that they might not remember the reason for which they have the days off.

Monday, May 22, 2000

With the bustle of graduations, family reuions and general hubub that accompanies Memorial Day weekend festivities, many people will get so caught up in the celebrations that they might not remember the reason for which they have the days off.

Memorial Day is our chance as a community – and a nation – to thank those servicemen and women who have given their lives to protect ours.

And, while we are at it, we also take the time to thank those who are currently risking their lives at military bases around the world.

For those who have already done their tour of duty, Memorial Day is a time for tears as well as salutes. They know that this holiday is a chance to remember the men and women who did not come home.

The families know, too. There will be thousands who will remember a fallen husband, father, son or brother this weekend.

Although the city’s May 29 parade is the official celebration of the holiday, there will be other events throughout the next two weeks to honor those who have served and are now serving their country in the armed forces.

Enjoy the parade, but attend some of those ceremonies, too. They will not only give you a chance to say thank you, it might just change your perspective on the nation these heroes have helped us build. To honor their memory is the least we can do.