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Six Simple Memorial Day Weekend Activity Ideas From a Military Family

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It’s Memorial Day weekend and for so many Americans, this weekend often marks the beginning of summer and the start of beach outings, BBQs, camping and pool time. But it is so much more than that! In fact, the true meaning of Memorial is to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the armed forces.

Even as a military family, it can be too easy to get caught up in the picnics, BBQs and family picnics, forgetting the true meaning of the holiday.

But for many military wives and veteran’s wives, Memorial Day forces them to walk down memory, remembering the families they knew, the tears they cried, the memorial services they sat in.

Many Feelings Come to Mind

We feel gratitude for the gift of being together, being safe. Guilt because we are together and safe when so many others are not. Some feel fear for those who are celebrating this Memorial Day knowing that their loved one are still in danger on the other side of the world. We ALL feel pride for being a part of the few who have served our country.

So this memorial day weekend, spend this extra long weekend in meaningful activities that cultivate those feelings of pride and gratitude for those who paid the ultimate sacrifices. Not sure what to do? Here are SIX meaningful ways to remember the reason for the holiday weekend.

1. Display the American Flag.

Displaying the American Flag is the easiest way to honor this country and those who have served. If you own an American flag, you can teach your older children the proper etiquate for a flag. It is important to remember to display the flag at half-staff prior to noon on Memorial Day, and then raise to full staff for the remainder of the day. This is out of respect for those who have passed.

If you do not own a flag, consider some crafts to create one using construction paper or simply have your children each draw their best American flag on paper. It is a fun and easy way to teach your children about what the flag symbolizes as well!

2. Visit and pay tribute.

Visit a local Veteran’s cemetery or war memorial. To show honor and respect, bring flowers to lie on a grave or at the memorial in remembrance of our nation’s fallen heroes. Many places also allow small flags to be placed on the graves. You can find a list of state Veteran cemeteries here. If you do not live near a cemetery, consider visiting a VA hospital and brightening the day of Vets near you!

3. Send Care Packages To Deployed Troops

A friend of mine once told me that every Memorial Day, her family compiles a care packages for deployed troops. You can collect needed items and send them to organizations such as Support Our Troops. Then all you need to do is ship your items to Support Our Troops and they will send it where it needs to go. If you have kids, have them help pick out items, handwrite a note or draw a picture to include in the package. You can check out my ultimate care package list for some inspiration on what to include!

4. Attend a Parade.

Attend a Memorial Day parade in your local area! Everyone LOVES a good parade! To find one near you visit vetfriends.com. Cities and towns throughout the United States host Memorial Day parades each year, often incorporating military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations. Some of the largest parades take place in Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C. You can also watch the National Memorial Day Parade on television of you are not able to make one near you!

5. SHARE What Memorial Day Means to You.

So many families across America know someone who has served, whether they are currently serving, in the reserves or national guard, a veteran or those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Sharing stories from your family history brings the reality of the holiday into sharper focus for your entire family This also cultivates a sense of pride in the contributions made by those in your own circle.  By doing this, you are not only honoring and remembering strangers but also the military members close to home.

Take a few moments this upcoming holiday weekend to teach kids about Memorial Day and take part in one of these kid-friendly activities! These simple ideas are perfect for teaching kids how to honor our nation’s lost heroes, while still leaving plenty of time for picnics, barbeques and other great family gatherings.

6. Observe the National Moment of Remembrance

In 2000, Congress established The National Moment of Remembrance.  It asks Americans, wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, to pause for a full minute in an act of national unity to pay our respects to the men and women who died in service of our country. This an act of national unity in which all Americans, alone or with family and friends, pause to remember.

So This Memorial Day, Take Time To Remember the Real Meaning

There is NOTHING wrong with spending quality time with out friends and family over the long weekend. In fact, that is one of my favorite things and spending time eating good food, talking and watching the kids play with the sprinklers are things I look forward to every year. However, remembering the true meaning of Memorial Day and what it means to our country’s history, our nation’s warriors, and their families is truly an amazing opportunity for each and every one of us.

But don’t forget the ones that they left behind: their widows, children, and those who served with them. They are forever changed by the sacrifices made. Maybe say an extra prayer for them too.

What activities does your family enjoy doing on Memorial Day?

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Hi! Welcome to Mrs. Navy Mama.

I’m Noralee- a military wife of over 10 years, mother of three (soon to be 4) under 5, and lover of southern comfort food, my planner and chocolate. Military life is hard, no question.

Mrs. Navy Mama is a place where new military girlfriends, fiancees, or spouses can get tips and an honest perspective about military challenges.