6 Ways to Honor the Fallen This Memorial Day
Memorial Day parades and large gatherings will not be happening this year due to COVID-19, but there are still ways to honor the fallen and pay tribute in your own way, even if you’re still in quarantine.
Here are a few ways to honor veterans this Memorial Day:
1. First, spend some time understanding what Memorial Day is and how it came about. The History Channel offers information about how the observance began and when. Additionally, it’s important to note the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day pays tribute to Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice. Now is as good a time as any to brush up on your Memorial Day history.
2. Although large gatherings will not be allowed at cemeteries, you can still visit individually to lay a wreath or place a flag. Read more about VA guidelines for visiting VA cemeteries.
3. Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has teamed up with Ancestry® to take part in a virtual Memorial Day parade. Tune in to watch this virtual parade May 25 at 11 am ET on Ancestry’s Facebook page. Kathie Lee Gifford is hosting the event, which includes performances by Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter Tori Kelly and Acapop! KIDS, created by the founding minds of Pentatonix. You will hear wounded warriors and others paying tribute to their fallen brothers and sisters.
4. This year, consider virtually honoring the fallen. This website allows you to find the name of any veteran laid to rest within a national cemetery. Pay tribute by sharing a memory or story on the site.
5. The amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery just turned 100 years old, and to mark the centennial, you can now tour it virtually, as it’s currently closed to visitors. Check out the video, and then scroll down for the full virtual experience.
6. Lastly, tune in to the National Memorial Day Concert on Sunday, May 24 at 8 pm ET. WWP supporter Trace Adkins will perform. Check your local listings for PBS stations in your area.
About Wounded Warrior Project
Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more.