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Many Americans look forward to Memorial Day for a long-anticipated three-day weekend. If you're looking to make your holiday a little more memorable — and a lot more sentimental — try commemorating the occasion for what it is: a day to remember those who gave their life for the cause of American freedom.
Whether you're remembering alone or commemorating at an organized event, there are many ways you can honor veterans this Memorial Day.
Attend a local memorial service
Many communities host Memorial Day services at local monuments, cemeteries or veterans' facilities. Attending these services allows you to join in remembrance with fellow community members, veterans and military officials in showing your gratitude.
Whether it's a wreath-laying ceremony or a brief moment of silence, you can find information about upcoming events at your local veterans' association or municipal government. If you're local to Salt Lake City, join in the Memorial Day ceremony on the south steps of the Utah State Capitol Building May 27 at 11 a.m.
Fly the American flag
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, flying the American flag at half-staff from dawn until noon on Memorial Day is an easy, but significant way of honoring deceased veterans.
At noon, raise the flag to full-staff to symbolize the nation's resolve to not let the sacrifices be in vain, but to continue to fight for liberty and justice for all. Of course, you should always ensure your flag is displayed respectfully.
If you need a new or replacement flag to display, you can honor veterans and support a local business by buying a flag from Utah-based Colonial Flag. You can learn more about flying your flag according to code by visiting the Colonial Flag website.
Visit war memorials or military exhibits
Spending some time at war memorials or military exhibits can be a profound way to connect with history and learn personal stories of military service. Utah has several military museums, from Hill Aerospace Museum near Ogden to the Fort Douglas Military Museum in Salt Lake.
Additionally, many counties across the state are home to war or veteran memorials. Visiting these sites can provide a deeper understanding of the complexities and sacrifices involved in military service.
Volunteer your time
Many veterans' homes and hospitals welcome volunteers, especially on and around Memorial Day. Engaging directly with veterans can be a rewarding experience that also provides invaluable companionship to older or disabled service members. Whether you're helping to organize a special Memorial Day event, serving meals or simply spending a few hours talking with veterans, your time is a wonderful gift that honors their service and sacrifices.
Support veteran-owned businesses
Supporting veteran-owned businesses is a practical way to honor those who have served. These businesses are run by individuals who have transitioned from military to civilian life, which is no easy thing.
Choosing to spend your money on their services or products is a direct way to show appreciation for their service. If you need a head start, the Utah Department of Veterans & Military Affairs publishes a registry of veteran-owned businesses.
Participate in the National Moment of Remembrance
The National Moment of Remembrance, established by Congress, asks Americans, wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, to pause in an act of national unity for one minute.
The time 3 p.m. was chosen because it is the time when many Americans are enjoying their freedoms on the national holiday. By observing this moment, you'll feel the true importance of Memorial Day and provide a unified way for everyone to pay their respects.
Write thank-you letters to veterans
Consider writing thank-you letters to veterans you know or to a local veterans' hospital or through organizations that connect the public to veterans who might not otherwise receive much mail. A simple, heartfelt message thanking them for their service can have a significant emotional impact and remind veterans that their sacrifices are remembered and appreciated.
Celebrate veterans and the United States
Memorial Day is a much-beloved holiday, but it's also a reminder of the cost of freedom. Commemorating the day by honoring veterans is the perfect way to show gratitude to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for your freedom.
Fly the American flag on your car, your home, your business and on a flagpole to honor the United States and those who fight to protect it. Visit Colonial Flag in Sandy, or online, to purchase an American flag made in the U.S.
If you need a flagpole for your residence, flags for an outgoing missionary or custom-made banners for a special event, Colonial Flag is proud to provide whatever you're looking for. With over 40 years of experience in making high-quality flags while providing exceptional customer service, Colonial Flag is your go-to source for all flag-related products.
Visit colonialflag.com today to learn how you can take advantage of special discount pricing on flags, flagpoles, banners and more.
