Remember These 3 Principles On Memorial Day
On Memorial Day Monday we remember and honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice serving our country. Here are three motivational takeaways about this solemn holiday:
1) Every country has their version of Veterans Day, only the USA has a Memorial Day dedicated to those who lost their lives while on active duty. Local celebrations started in several eastern states between 1865-1867 to remember the fallen from the Civil War. In 1868 it became a national event.
2) Originally named ‘Decoration Day,’ it was established on May 30. Why then? Two reasons: First, the date didn’t coincide with any one particular Civil War Battle so it represented them all. Second, it takes that long into the spring for northern states to get some of their best flowers in bloom ... and this holiday’s purpose was not just to remember the sacrifice of the fallen, but as the General Order #11 from the Army of the Potomac stated for this new National Day, its purpose was “to strew with flowers or otherwise decorate the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country.”
3) To honor the fallen, it’s fitting to greet veterans or their military family members with, “We Remember.” You’ll often receive the respectful response, “Always. Thank you.”
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic this will be the first Memorial Day in decades I haven't participated in an outdoor ceremony or provide a keynote speech in a public setting to remember the fallen. Rather I'll participate in several video-teleconferences where there'll be multiple opportunities to reflect upon former shipmates, wingmen and battle buddies who offered our country - what President Lincoln described as - their "last full measure of devotion." To them and all Gold Star families ... "We Remember ... Always."
Rear Admiral Becker, USN (Ret) served 30 years as a Naval Officer in peace, crisis and combat. The Naval Intelligence Community established the "Rear Admiral Becker 'Teamwork, Tone, Tenacity' Award' in his honor. The Becker T3 Group is his platform for inspirational public speaking.
Paul- what a beautiful message- thank you for sharing. My husband and I spent time remembering those we have lost and connecting with their loved ones. We also work to assure our daughters become increasingly aware of this day. Hoping you and yours are in good health and spirits.
Award Winning CEO, Combat Veteran, and #1 Bestselling Author leading elite global enterprises to succeed on complex missions in high risk environments despite every obstacle.
4yMay God continue to Bless all our fallen warriors; their ultimate sacrifices will not be in vain. We will keep their spirits alive by honoring them in all we do. We Remember.