For some Americans, Memorial Day has become confusing in recent years. Referred to often as the first unofficial day of summer and, with sunny, warm weather an opportunity to grill with friends and family, the opportunity to remember more than a million American lives lost in the defense of our freedom can be forgotten. If that is the case, wishing someone a Happy Memorial Day may not be appropriate. 

If, however, the “Happy Memorial Day” communicates a grateful joy for the liberty and opportunities we enjoy today from the sacrifices of past generations, the expression seems to indeed fit the holiday. Our hope is that our fellow citizens will once again use the day to reflect and pay tribute to the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice of their lives on our behalf.  

Possible Memorial Day activities include honoring fallen comrades by visiting their graves and/or placing flags, participating in remembrance ceremonies in the local community, spending time and conversing with friends and family about those who have fallen, or choosing a private, personal way to remember and honor those who have passed in defense of the nation. 

BVA members residing in the Washington, DC, area will participate in the annual Memorial Day ceremony and organizational wreath laying at Arlington National Cemetery hosted by the Military District of Washington. Stay tuned for summary recaps in next week’s BVA Happenings and the Spring 2023 BVA Bulletin. 

Earlier this week, BVA Executive Director Donald D. Overton, Jr. shared a Memorial Day message with members and friends of the Association. To view and read the message now, click here.