How to Observe Memorial Day 2024

Every year, our country commemorates Memorial Day, usually considered the start of summer festivities. But it's not just a day for leisure activities like barbecues and beach trips - Memorial Day holds significant meaning as it pays tribute to the sacrifices made by our fallen soldiers.

On Memorial Day, you can pause and reflect on the profound sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have served in our armed forces during World War and World War II. Take a moment to honor their memory and express gratitude for their dedication to protecting our freedoms.

What is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day, or Memorial Day weekend, is an annual holiday observed in the United States on the last Monday of May. It's a day meant to honor the military personnel who lost their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

This holiday originated after the American Civil War to commemorate Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the conflict, and it has since evolved to honor all Americans who have died in military service.

This year, 2024, Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 27th. So aside from your summer plans, plan how you can observe this holiday. To help you with it, here are activities you can do to participate in Memorial Day meaningfully.

13 Ways to Commemorate Fallen Heroes on Memorial Day

Wear your Memorial Day Button (from May 1st until Memorial Day)

Memorial Day buttons are usually worn from May 1st to Memorial Day itself, as a gesture to honor the fallen heroes. The simple act serves as an emotional symbol of the sacrifices made by men and women in the armed forces. It also shows support for individuals and military families who have lost loved ones in service to their country.

At your workplace and your homes, encourage everyone to wear Memorial Day buttons. By wearing the button, you give tribute to the fallen troops and show your respect and appreciation for their courage and commitment.

Visit a military cemetery or war memorial

If your office is closed, invite your employees or your colleagues to visit a military cemetery or war memorial. Make a list of nearby locations so you know where to go.

You can visit Arlington National Cemetery first, one of the most iconic memorials in the country. Then, encourage everyone to take a moment of silence in front of the soldiers’ graves and reflect on the sacrifices they made.

This gesture shows that you honor and respect the bravery and commitment made by men and women in the armed forces.

Participate in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3pm

Whether you're at home or your workplace, take a moment and participate in the National Moment of Remembrance. Set an alarm at 3pm local time and pause for a moment of silence. Encourage your family members and colleagues to do the same.

Reflect on the true meaning of this holiday and think about the greater good that their ultimate sacrifice brought in our country.

Join a Memorial Day Parade or running race

You could also consider joining a Memorial Day parade, participating in a running race, or attending a National Memorial Day concert. These events are not only a great way to honor the military, but they also bring the community together in a spirit of remembrance and appreciation for the servicemen and women.

It's a wonderful opportunity to show support for veterans and active-duty personnel while being part of a meaningful local community event.

Give out red poppies 

Red poppies are worn as a symbol of remembrance on Memorial Day. These symbolic flowers have long been associated with remembrance and are often worn as a tribute to those who have sacrificed their lives in service. National Poppy Day is observed on the Friday before Memorial Day.

You can hand out red poppies, buy poppy pins, or create your own with tissue paper.

Learn about Gold Star families

The title "Gold Star Family" is only granted to the families of service members who have lost their lives while doing their duties. The purpose of this title is to acknowledge the service member's family's loss, grief, and ongoing recovery while also honoring their ultimate sacrifice.

No one wishes to get this title, so this Memorial Day weekend, take a few minutes to learn about Gold Star Families.

Donate to a charity that supports veteran families

Another meaningful way to observe Memorial Day is by donating to a charity that supports military families. Donate to a charity on behalf of your business or your household. By contributing to these organizations, you can honor the fallen heroes by providing much-needed support to their widowed families.

Listen to veterans’ stories

If you're at the office or at home during National Memorial Day and have spare time to spare, consider listening to veterans' stories, such as NPR's Back at Base or a webinar hosted by Baruch College. Encourage your colleagues to do the same.

You can also listen and initiate a conversation around the topic of the things you learned, passing the knowledge to other people. By doing so, you not only honor their service but also help preserve their invaluable memories for generations to come.

Honor service members and their relatives

If you know someone - colleague, acquaintance, close friend - who has served in the military or have relatives who have served, take the time to acknowledge their service. Spend some time listening to their experiences, offer support, and recognize their contributions. This simple gesture of recognition can mean a great deal and shows your heartfelt gratitude.

Gift boxes for veterans 

Consider purchasing care packages or gift boxes filled with essential items, treats, and heartfelt notes of appreciation for veterans and their families. These thoughtful gestures can brighten their day and remind them that their or their family member's service is remembered and deeply appreciated. You can give it to them personally or through organizations dedicated to supporting veterans.

And if you're a business that celebrates National Memorial Day, you can also give out free gift boxes to your employees and customers who are veterans or have family members who have served in the military. Your customers can show their I.D. or their family members' I.D. to claim their free gift box.

This gesture not only honors their contributions but also strengthens the bond between your business and the veteran community.

Care Packages for Veteran Families at Shadow Breeze

Here at Shadow Breeze, we are honored to offer care packages specially curated for veteran families, filled with essential items, comforting treats, and heartfelt messages of gratitude. As we commemorate Memorial Day, let us remember and honor the sacrifices made by our brave service members and their families. Through small gestures of appreciation, like these care packages, we can express our deepest gratitude for their dedication and service to our country.

Reach out to our corporate gifting experts and create personalized gift boxes for our brave heroes.

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