What Should You Not Do on Memorial Day?

What Should You Not Do on Memorial Day

On the last Monday of May, many people celebrate Memorial Day as a time to enjoy family picnics, cookouts, department store sales and summer events. It is a holiday that was first established by Congress to honor those who died in military service.

The holiday is also referred to as Decoration Day or Memorial Day and it is a federally recognized holiday that is held every year on the last Monday of May.

Originally, it was called Decoration Day because communities would decorate the graves of soldiers killed in wars. After World War I, it was renamed as Memorial Day and became an official national holiday.

There are many things that you should not do on Memorial Day, so it’s important to remember this and respect those who have served our country.

1. Wish Someone a “Happy Memorial Day”

When you say “Happy Memorial Day” to someone, it is not a direct gesture of appreciation for that person. Rather, it is a general, sentimental greeting that says something like “I hope you have a great day.” While this is a kind gesture, it does not equate to thanking a person for their service.

2. Wear a Red Poppy

The red poppy is a symbol of Memorial Day that was first worn by Canadian soldier John McCrae during World War I and has become associated with the holiday. It is a traditional symbol of Memorial Day that you can buy and wear or donate to charity.

3. Attend a Ceremony

There are a number of ceremonies across the nation on Memorial Day that you can participate in. You can visit local cemeteries, attend a veteran’s memorial service or even cheer on a community marching band.

4. Buy A Poppy

If you want to give back to veterans, consider buying a red poppy during the days leading up to Memorial Day. The poppies are usually a donation, and the proceeds help support state and national rehabilitation and service programs for veterans.

5. Volunteer at a Veterans Cemetery

If your loved ones have served our country in the military, take the opportunity to volunteer at a veterans cemetery or other charitable organization. You can also help veterans by donating to organizations such as Operation Gratitude, which works to send care packages and toiletries to deployed troops.

6. Don’t Eat a Meal That Costs You Money

While it is okay to spend time on the beach or lake or even have an outdoor cookout, you should not consume a meal that costs you money on Memorial Day. This is especially true if it’s going to a restaurant or at a sports event that requires you to pay for the food.

7. Send a Letter of Thanks

If you have kids, encourage them to write letters of gratitude to their military brothers and sisters. These cards will show them that Memorial Day is more than a three-day weekend off from school.