Celebrating the Memorial Day weekend is a tried and true American tradition. In fact, 75 percent of Americans have some plan to celebrate this weekend, surpassing those who celebrate Father’s Day, Mother’s Day and Labor Day.
Nearly 40 million Americans will travel this weekend at least 40 miles, a 2.7 percent increase over 2016. Almost 90 percent of them by car. For those who stay behind, stores, restaurants and theme parks are offering free or discounted prices to veterans and civilians alike.
However, it’s important to remember that this weekend isn’t just about backyard barbecues, road trips or free stuff. The Memorial Day weekend is a time to honor the 42-plus million veterans who have served this great nation. It’s a time to remember the 1.3 million soldiers who have lost their lives in conflict.
Congress has designated 3 p.m. on Memorial Day (Monday, May 29) as the National Moment of Remembrance. Wherever you are this Memorial Day at 3 p.m., whether you are stuck in traffic, eating hotdogs with friends and family, or shopping for a last minute deal, take a moment to remember those who have fought for your freedom.
That freedom includes some fundamental rights that many of us take for granted, including:
- Freedom of Speech
- Freedom of Religion
- Freedom to Assemble
So remember, Memorial Day is more than just a three-day weekend. It’s more than just an excuse to get out of town, it’s more than the unofficial start of summer. Memorial Day is about pride, remembrance, and celebrating everything that makes America great.
Go out, celebrate, and spend some quality time with friends and family. Be safe, America.
Sources:
https://wallethub.com/blog/memorial-day-facts/21363/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_moment_of_remembrance
