“… And if words cannot repay the debt we owe these men, surely with our actions we must strive to keep faith with them and with the vision that led them to battle and to final sacrifice.” -- Ronald ReaganIntroduction
This Memorial Day 2023 would be a great time to start teaching your curious kids about our nation’s fallen heroes. The many ways they can learn will enable them to honor them every day. One activity daily, or just once a week, is all it takes to make a lasting impression and to ensure that our fallen heroes are never forgotten. It will teach pride, respect, and caring.
Definition
Veterans Day and Memorial Day both honor military personnel. Memorial Day, originating after the Civil War, is a day to honor those who lost their lives in or due to military engagement. Veterans Day emerged after World War I and is dedicated to honoring all servicemen and servicewomen, especially those still living, offering their firsthand accounts and experiences.
Activity:
Fallen Heroes:
The South Carolina Twelve: During the Revolutionary War, as the British occupied the South, American troops confronted them in scorching South Carolina. Led by General Gates, Continental Regulars from Maryland and Delaware endured a devastating defeat at the Battle of Camden, while the inexperienced Virginia militiamen retreated. Amidst this failed campaign, about 900 courageous Americans, including twelve soldiers, remained buried beneath the soil of a South Carolina forest, denied the return to their loved ones and forgotten by subsequent generations. Recently discovered, these unknown soldiers were finally given a fitting burial in Camden, alongside a memorial, receiving long overdue appreciation from a grateful nation.
A Courageous Civil War Captain: In the deadliest conflict in American history, the Civil War, an estimated 750,000 lives were lost as the nation grappled with the long-standing injustice of slavery. Amidst this backdrop, an act of remarkable bravery unfolded on the Confederate ship Planter off the coast of South Carolina. Former slave Robert Smalls, accompanied by an African American crew led by white officers, took advantage of their unsupervised moment and steered the ship to freedom, rescuing his family and others. Smalls went on to advocate for the inclusion of former slaves in the Union Army, served as a Union ship's pilot, and later held political office, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's history and paving the way for African Americans in the military.
A Reluctant World War I Hero: Alvin York was born into poverty in Tennessee and provided for his family after his father’s death. Because his church opposed military service, he tried to evade the draft but his request for exemption was denied. Sergeant Alvin York achieved legendary status as an American hero when he single-handedly captured 132 German soldiers and assumed command of his unit after the sergeants leading them fell in a counterattack. His remarkable life story was embraced by the American public and immortalized in the blockbuster film "Sergeant York," featuring Gary Cooper.
These heroes' full stories and other heroes' stories can be found at this link.
History
Initially coined as "Decoration Day" by General John A. Logan, it entailed a heartfelt appeal to the public, urging them to adorn the resting places of those who perished in the Civil War, as their remains lay in countless churchyards, villages, and cities across the nation.
Later on, Memorial Day was formally established as a recognized holiday in 1971. By an act of Congress, the last Monday in May was designated a federal holiday dedicated to paying tribute to the brave servicemen and servicewomen who lost their lives in America's various conflicts.
Activity:
Families
The families of fallen military heroes bear a profound burden of grief and loss. Their lives are forever marked by the absence of their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. They endure immeasurable pain, yet often display remarkable strength and resilience.
These families deserve our unwavering support, compassion, and gratitude for the sacrifices they have endured, as they carry the legacy of their fallen heroes and navigate life's challenges with a profound sense of honor and remembrance. They are often referred to as “Gold Star” families.
Activity:
Family: Take a Gold Star Family out for a meal or share one at your home.
Family: Look at pictures of Gold Star Familys’ loved ones and ask questions about their hobbies, their lives, and even their death.
Family: Talk about your family’s history of military service.
Modern Traditions
Modern traditions and observances of Memorial Day hold a special place in our hearts. On this day, we come together to honor the memory of fallen servicemen and servicewomen.
We visit cemeteries and memorials, adorning them with flags and flowers as a tribute. Parades, memorial services, and community gatherings serve as reminders of the sacrifices made.
Additionally, families and friends gather for picnics and barbecues, cherishing moments of togetherness while reflecting on the true meaning of this solemn occasion. Through these collective acts, we ensure that the memory and legacy of our fallen heroes endure.
Activity:
Family: Watch the National Memorial Day Parade on Constitution Avenue at 2:00 pm on May 29, 2023.
Family: During your cookout, have a moment of silence or observe the National Moment of Silence at 3:00 pm on Memorial Day.
Family: Decorate your house in red, white, and blue to celebrate.
Family: Wear a red poppy. Wearing a red poppy comes from a poem written during World War I by a military doctor that describes bright red poppies on a battlefield.
Family: Give a donation to a military charity. Let your kids help to decide which one.
Family: Send a letter or care package to a U.S. soldier. Show them that they are not forgotten.
Kid: Watch Jack Hartman’s video to learn about pride in our country.
Resources:
Memorial Day: 10 Ways to Bring Honor Back to America's Fallen Heroes | Moms for America
6 Ways to Honor Surviving Loved Ones on This Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day (taps.org)
Honoring Heroes on Memorial Day: 5 True Stories of America's Fallen | Moms for America
What Is the Difference Between Veterans Day and Memorial Day? (history.com)
President John F. Kennedy Gravesite (arlingtoncemetery.mil)
