Julie A. Braun, J.D., LL.M.’s Post

For many Americans, Memorial Day is more than just a long weekend and the unofficial start of summer. The holiday's true purpose is to honor U.S. soldiers who have died in service to their country. Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day, with its origins dating back to the Civil War. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans' Affairs, Congress declared it a national holiday in 1971. The Civil War, which ended in the spring of 1865, was the deadliest conflict in U.S. history and led to the creation of the nation’s first national cemeteries. By the late 1860s, Americans across the country began holding springtime ceremonies to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and saying prayers. The exact origins of these traditions are unclear, as many communities may have independently started their own memorial gatherings. Some records indicate that one of the earliest Memorial Day commemorations was organized by a group of formerly enslaved people in Charleston, South Carolina, less than a month after the Confederacy surrendered in 1865. However, in 1966, the federal government declared Waterloo, New York, as the official birthplace of Memorial Day. While Veterans Day in November honors all who have served in the military, Memorial Day specifically honors those who have died while serving in U.S. forces in any war, past or present. An important aspect of Memorial Day is the “National Moment of Remembrance,” a resolution passed in December 2000. It asks all Americans to observe a moment of silence at 3 p.m. local time, pausing from whatever they are doing to reflect and show respect for the fallen. Ultimately, Memorial Day is a day for Americans to reflect on and honor the sacrifices of those who have given their lives in military service. #MemorialDay2024, #NationalMomentofRemembrance,

🇺🇸 Honoring Our Heroes on Memorial Day 🇺🇸 "Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices." – Harry S. Truman Today, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their courage, dedication, and selflessness have secured the freedoms we cherish every day. As we reflect on the significance of this day, let's also recognize the families who have lost loved ones. Their strength and resilience are a testament to the profound impact of these heroes. Ways to Honor and Remember: Participate in Memorial Day Events: Attend ceremonies and parades to show your support. Visit Memorials and Cemeteries: Pay your respects at local memorials and veterans' gravesites. Support Veterans: Donate to organizations that assist veterans and their families. Share Stories: If you have a story of a loved one who served, share it to keep their memory alive. Let’s commit to remembering their sacrifices, not just today, but every day. Their legacy is our enduring duty. How are you honoring Memorial Day? Share your thoughts and stories below. #MemorialDay #HonorOurHeroes #RememberAndRespect #ServiceAndSacrifice #Veterans #Honor #Service

A Soldiers Poem I was that which others did not want to be. I went where others feared to go, and did that which others failed to do. I asked nothing from those who gave nothing, and reluctantly accepted the thought of eternal loneliness...should I fail. I have seen the face of terror; felt the stinging cold of fear; and enjoyed the sweet taste of a moment's love. I have cried, pained and hoped... But most of all I have lived times that others say were best forgotten. At least someday, I will be able to say that I was proud of what I was... a SOLDIER. Today, we remember and honor the many who stood in the shadows of conflict, embodying courage and resilience. Their sacrifices paved the path of peace we walk today. Here are ways we can honor these fallen heroes: 1. **Reflect on Their Courage**: Read and share poems like the one above, which capture the essence of their journey and sacrifice. 2. **Visit Memorials**: Take time to visit local memorials and pay homage to the fallen. 3. **Educate and Share**: Teach the younger generation about the significance of this day and share stories of heroism. 4. **Support Veterans**: Engage with and support veterans' organizations in your community. 5. **Observe a Moment of Silence**: At 3 PM, pause for a national moment of remembrance and reflection. Let us carry their legacy forward with pride and ensure their memories and stories continue to inspire. 🌹 Remember And Honor #MemorialDay #Sacrifice #HonorAndRemember #Marmon #Duty #Honor #Country

Memorial Day is different than Veterans Day. Please don’t thank a veteran for our service on Memorial Day. Veterans understand and appreciate your intentions; however, #MemorialDay honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation in war and peace. Instead, you might ask that #veteran or #GoldStarFamily Member how they plan to remember the brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, friends and loved ones who gave “the last full measure of devotion.” Some other ideas before enjoying the holiday include: - Learning more about the history of Memorial Day (https://lnkd.in/gnUY3Ky) - Learning more about our Gold Star Families (Home - America's Gold Star Families ( https://lnkd.in/g2SZYb6P) - Observing a moment of silence at 3:00 p.m. local time (National Moment of Remembrance - The Memorial Day Foundation, https://lnkd.in/g-TnNRqq) - Learning more about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Sentinels who guard the fallen (Society of the Honor Guard, tombguard.org or https://lnkd.in/g6PrYXsQ) - Visiting a local #VACemetery (https://lnkd.in/g2YjRyUR) -      Testing your Memorial Day knowledge: https://lnkd.in/g-Apb48u  -      Or come up with your own ideas. #poppies

Freedom isn’t free

Memorial Day, from the perspective of a veteran, is a solemn day of remembrance and honor. It’s a day to reflect on the sacrifices of those who have fallen in the line of duty, protecting the freedoms and values we hold dear. For veterans who have experienced the realities of war firsthand, Memorial Day carries a profound significance that goes beyond the typical celebrations and gatherings. It’s a day marked by memories of comrades who never made it home, whose laughter and courage are remembered in the quiet moments of a veteran’s heart. It’s a time to think about the families left behind, the empty seats at dinner tables, and the personal stories of bravery that ended too soon. Veterans understand the weight of loss and the price of freedom in a way that is deeply personal and often painful. Memorial Day is not about the living; it’s about honoring those who have given their lives for something greater than themselves. It’s about the men and women buried in cemeteries across the nation, who were more than just soldiers; they were loved ones, friends, and family. For veterans, the day may also bring a mix of emotions, including pride in their service and a sense of camaraderie with those who understand the cost of war. Yet, it can also be a challenging time, as the focus on military service and sacrifices can trigger memories and emotions related to their own experiences. As a nation, we can honor the true meaning of Memorial Day by participating in commemorative activities, observing moments of silence, and supporting organizations that provide resources and support to veterans and their families. It’s a day to ensure that the legacy of the fallen is not forgotten but is carried forward with respect and gratitude for the freedoms their sacrifices have secured.

Honoring Our Fallen Heroes: Memorial Day and Beyond As Memorial Day approaches, I want to highlight the often-overlooked stories behind the names we see on bridges, highways, and cemeteries. These are the names of our fallen veterans, and their stories are fading as the last survivors of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam pass on. My own ancestors served, and I grew up hearing incredible stories of bravery and sacrifice. It's a source of regret that I didn't preserve their words more carefully. We're losing precious first-hand accounts with every passing day. The recent news about the Francis Scott Key Bridge reminded me how little the younger generations may know about America’s past. Let's change that! This May, I'll be sharing stories of some of the places dedicated to fallen veterans. I hope this will inspire others to learn the history behind these names. Is there a national map or resource listing veteran-named highways and bridges? If you know of one, please share! May 2/31 Next time you're on US Highway 12, remember the sacrifices of the Iron Brigade! This Civil War unit, known for its black hats and bravery, suffered heavy losses at battles like Gettysburg. This portion of the highway is also dedicated to such battles as Second Bull Run and Antietam. I was fortunate enough to serve alongside USS Antietam (CG 54), third in name, for four deployments. Learning the history of the Battle of Antietam is well worth the read/viewing (in comments) for those who do not know of this historic battle. While the battle took place in Maryland, there are dedications to those that died in battle all along US Highway 12. Look for historical markers in WI, MI, & IN commemorating these soldiers. #IronBrigade #USHistory #RoadTrip #CivilWarBattlefield #NeverForget #Maryland #lestweforget #veterans #heroes #memorialday

As Memorial Day unfolds, it's more than just a day off or a time for barbecues. It's a moment to pause, reflect, and honor the sacrifices made by those who have served and continue to serve in the armed forces. It's a day to acknowledge the debt of gratitude we owe to those who have given their lives in defense of our freedom and way of life. Memorial Day is a time to remember not only the soldiers who have fallen, but also the families they leave behind. It's a day to recognize the immense sacrifices made by military families, who endure long separations, frequent moves, and the constant fear of the unknown. But amidst the somber reflections, there is also room for gratitude. Gratitude for the freedoms we often take for granted. Gratitude for the quality of life we enjoy, made possible by the dedication and bravery of our armed forces. And let's commit ourselves to ensuring that their sacrifices were not in vain. Let's work to build a world where freedom and justice are not just lofty ideals, but lived realities for all. Let's strive to create a future worthy of the legacy left to us by those who have gone before. This Memorial Day, let's remember, let's reflect, and let's give thanks. But let's also recommit ourselves to the values & lets ensure a brighter future for generations to come. #MemorialDay #Gratitude #RememberTheHeroes #RememberAndReflect

In the United States, Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day. Approximately 620,000 men died in the war between the states. Decoration Day in the United States officially started after the U.S. Civil war of April 12, 1861 - April 9, 1865. It started with local groups after the war. In 1866, the state of New York began their official observance on May 5. New York suffered the largest casualty count with around 39,000 deaths during the war. In 1868, the first national recognition of decoration day was observed on May 30. This was the result of efforts by veteran groups of former union soldiers. The practice of remembering loved ones lost in the war was already being done in the American South, even before the end of the war in 1865. This typically involved a visit to the cemetery and the decorating of loved ones graves. In 1971, the U.S. Congress changed memorial day from May 30 to the last Monday in May. This created the three day weekend Americans now know and enjoy. In 1972, Time magazine noted that Memorial Day had devolved into "a three-day nationwide hootenanny that seems to have lost much of its original purpose". For those of us in the United States, this should be a special weekend. It's a time when we should take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by the many men and women in service to their neighbors, fellow citizens, and country. It shouldn't go without saying, "All gave some, but some gave all" and the price of freedom comes at a steep price. Every year on Memorial Day we remember those who paid the ultimate price. #freedom #sacrifice #honor #veterans