Sunday, May 25, 2008

REMEMBERING THOSE WHO SERVED


Memorial Day, aka Decoration Day commemorates U.S. men and women who have perished while in military service to their country. First enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War, it was expanded after World War I to include casualties of any war or military action .

Many people observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. US Eastern time. Another tradition is to fly the U.S. flag at half-staff from dawn until noon local time. Volunteers usually place an American flag upon each grave site located in a
National Cemetery.


In addition to remembrance, Memorial Day is also used as a time for picnics, barbecues and family gatherings. This is a three day weekend usually considered the kick-off to summer.


You may be heading to Lake George, Lake Taconic, or the Jersey Shore this weekend. Others have rented one of the Kingston Park pavilions for the family reunion. Either way, we all should remember the ultimate sacrifices our past and current military officers have and are performing in their duties.

The parade in Kingston is just one way we express our sincere thanks. But take the time to say thank you to any veterans you may meet all year long.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Today was perfect for the ceremony at City Hall.
The tank was a nice addition to the visual presentation.

You were wearing comfortable clothes today in the parade.
And no funny hat?

Anonymous said...

What an incredible day- A tribute to those who have made the sacrifice and served in our military. To those who paid the supreme sacrifice and are buried on foreign shores or in our own nations' hallowed grounds. Two years ago I was privileged to stand on the reviewing stand and watched as the parade passed by. On the sidelines were hundreds of Kingstonian. This year I watched from the shade of the tree at Friendly's and observed thousands standing or sitting on the curbs of our historic streets. Yes, its great to be an American.
take care and remember that freedom is not free.
Sz

Anonymous said...

I am so proud of our young soldiers serving in dozens of countries as we speak. Whether storming an enemy compound or keeping the peace after a disaster, our young men and women from all walks of life continue to impress me and all who pay attention.

Yes, there are administrative blunders that we regret from time to time, but those who serve do so with the citizens of this country behind them.

We will always honor those who served before us and support those who havent yet.

Anonymous said...

Thank you for your supportive comments.
Todays veterans from the occupations are in desperate need of financial and mental help when they come home.
Not to mention, like your older post showed, the GI Bill upgrade.
Thanks for keeping them in your thoughts.