Should You Thank Veterans on Memorial Day?
Contents
Acknowledging the Sacrifices of Veterans
Memorial Day, celebrated on the last Monday of May in the United States, is a significant federal holiday to honor the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Amidst the various tributes, parades, and remembrances, an important question often arises: should you thank veterans on Memorial Day?
**What’s the Right Approach?
Acknowledge the Sacrifices: Memorial Day is meant to honor the fallen service members who gave their lives to protect their country’s freedom and way of life. Thanking the living veterans who served may come across as an implicit suggestion that the fallen weren’t worthy of gratitude.
Don’t Diminish the Purpose: Refraining from thanking individual veterans on Memorial Day focuses the attention on the significance of the day: acknowledging the ultimate sacrifice made by those who didn’t return.
How to Acknowledge Veterans on Memorial Day: Instead of thanking living veterans, you can choose alternative ways to show appreciation for their service:
• Participate in National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans, where people visit, write letters, or make donations to military hospitals.
• Wear blue to show appreciation: The Blue Star campaign encourages people to wear blue shirts, scarves, or other accessories to demonstrate respect and gratitude.
• Engage in volunteer activities: Assist at military bases, support veterans’ organizations, or participate in events that help those serving or have served.
Gratitude Through-Out the Year
While Memorial Day is a special occasion for acknowledging the sacrifices of deceased service members, practical gratitude is essential. Here’s why:
• Acknowledge current veterans: On other occasions, such as Veterans’ Day (November 11), you can express thanks and appreciation to living veterans.
• Show daily appreciation: Make an effort to thank and support the families of those serving and the veterans in your life on a regular basis, not just on special occasions.
Taboo or Taboo Not?
Not everyone agrees with the ‘no thanking living veterans’ stance. Some people believe that every day, in every way, veterans, alive or deceased, should be acknowledged. A nuanced approach recognizes that there is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ approach. Individuals’ reactions and emotions may differ, and understanding these distinctions is crucial.
| Pros and Cons of Thanking Living Veterans on Memorial Day | |
|---|---|
| For thanking living veterans: They, too, made significant sacrifices and should be honored for their service. It fosters camaraderie and gratitude among the veterans and their families. | Against thanking living veterans: It can detract from the main purpose of Memorial Day (honoring the fallen), and focus may shift away from acknowledging those who didn’t come back. |
In Conclusion
As you observe Memorial Day, remember the ultimate goal is to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Avoid thanking living veterans on this specific occasion to maintain the solemn purpose. Instead, consider showing appreciation in more targeted ways throughout the year. This thoughtful distinction demonstrates respect for the men and women who gave their lives for their country. Remembering and appreciating their sacrifices serves as a testament to our collective gratitude.
