7 Ways to Honor Veterans on Memorial Day

Many Americans look forward to Memorial Day for a highly anticipated three-day weekend. If you want to make your holiday a little more memorable – and a lot more sentimental – try to commemorate the occasion for what it is: a day to remember those who gave their lives in the cause of American freedom.

Whether you commemorate alone or at an organized event, there are many ways you can honor veterans this Memorial Day.

Attend a local memorial service

Many communities host Memorial Day services at local monuments, cemeteries or veterans facilities. By attending these services, you can show your gratitude along with other community members, veterans, and military officials.

Whether it is a wreath laying ceremony or a short moment of silence, information about upcoming events can be found at your local veterans association or from the municipal government. If you live in Salt Lake City, join us for the Memorial Day ceremony on the south steps of the Utah State Capitol Building on May 27 at 11 a.m.

Fly the American flag

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, flying the American flag at half-staff from sunrise to noon on Memorial Day is an easy but important way to honor deceased veterans.

At 12 noon, raise the flag with full staff to symbolize the country’s resolve not to let the sacrifices be in vain, but to continue fighting for freedom and justice for all. Of course, you should always ensure that your flag is displayed respectfully.

If you need a new or replacement flag for display, you can honor veterans and support a local business by purchasing a flag from Utah-based Colonial Flag. You can learn more about flying your flag according to the code by visiting the Colonial Flag website.

Visit war memorials or military exhibitions

Spending some time at war memorials or military exhibits can be a profound way to connect with history and learn personal stories of military service. Utah has several military museums, from the Hill Aerospace Museum near Ogden to the Fort Douglas Military Museum in Salt Lake.

In addition, there are memorials to wars or veterans in many counties throughout the state. Visiting these locations can provide a deeper understanding of the complexities and sacrifices that military service entails.

Volunteer your time

Many veterans homes and hospitals welcome volunteers, especially on and around Memorial Day. Connecting directly with veterans can be a rewarding experience that also provides invaluable companionship to older or disabled service members. Whether you help organize a special Memorial Day event, serve meals, or simply spend a few hours chatting with veterans, your time is a wonderful gift that honors their service and sacrifices.

Support veteran-owned businesses

Supporting veteran-owned businesses is a practical way to honor those who have served. These companies are run by individuals who have made the transition from military to civilian life, which is not easy.

Choosing to spend your money on their services or products is a direct way to show appreciation for their service. If you need a head start, the Utah Department of Veterans & Military Affairs publishes a directory of veteran-owned businesses.

Participate in the National Remembrance Moment

The National Moment of Remembrance, established by Congress, asks Americans wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to pause for one minute in an act of national unity.

The time of 3 p.m. was chosen because this is the time when many Americans enjoy their freedoms on the national holiday. Observing this moment will help you feel the true importance of Memorial Day and provide everyone with a uniform way to show respect.

Write thank you letters to veterans

Consider writing thank you letters to veterans you know or to a local veterans hospital or through organizations that connect the public with veterans who might not otherwise receive much mail. A simple, heartfelt message thanking them for their service can have a significant emotional impact and remind veterans that their sacrifices are remembered and appreciated.

Four veterans and the United States

Memorial Day is a beloved holiday, but it also reminds us of the cost of freedom. Commemorating the day by honoring veterans is the perfect way to show gratitude to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for your freedom.

Hang the American flag on your car, your home, your business and on a flagpole to honor the United States and those who fight to protect it. Visit Colonial Flag in Sandy, or online, to purchase an American flag made in the USA

Whether you need a flagpole for your home, flags for an outgoing missionary or custom banners for a special event, Colonial Flag is proud to offer you what you are looking for. With over 40 years of experience making high-quality flags and providing exceptional customer service, Colonial Flag is your favorite source for all flag-related products.

Visit colonialflag.com today and find out how you can take advantage of special discounted prices on flags, flagpoles, banners and more.