Memorial Day is coming up, and with that comes all things red, white, and blue. While the parties, parades, and picnics are fun, it’s important to remember why we celebrate this holiday. One of the best ways to remind yourself, and those around you, about the importance of Memorial Day is by recognizing those who have served. This is particularly important if you have someone in your workplace, in your neighborhood, or even in your own family who has served, or has been directly impacted by the military service.
So, how can you show appreciation for those who protect our country? Here are a few ideas to help you get started:
Letters of Appreciation.
A subtle way to recognize those who have served in any capacity is to write out your thanks! A simple note to tell them that you honor and appreciate the sacrifice they made is a great way to make sure they don’t go unnoticed on Memorial Day. Don’t forget a note to anyone on your staff or in your immediate community (personal contacts) who has lost a close loved one, such as a spouse or a child, to military service. They have sacrificed for our nation as well.
Appreciation Breakfast/Lunch.
If you have more than one military veteran on your staff, or if you know multiple servicemen and women in your community, consider having a special breakfast or lunch to honor them. It doesn’t have to be expensive or fancy, but the fact that you are wiling to publicly recognize their service goes a long way! Only have one veteran on staff or only know a couple of contacts that have served? Consider having a breakfast or lunch for him/her and their close family. After all, like we said above, their families sacrificed during their time spent in service too!
Pay It Forward.
Another great way to recognize those who have served is to give back! Making a donation in the name of your business, school, church, or even just your family to Wounded Warriors, or other veteran support resources is a wonderful thank-you to our military. Make it better by having the donation made in honor of a veteran you know, and let them know what you did with a note or a printout of the donation. We are sure this will make them feel appreciated AND you’ll be assisting other veterans just like them as they return home from service.
Recognize the Gift.
Actively participating in Memorial Day festivities shows that you are ready to stand and celebrate the ultimate gift of freedom, realizing that some gave the highest sacrifice of their own lives to make it yours. The Tampa Bay area has a variety of events going on for Memorial Day, including the Carry The Load 5K/Ruck March (learn more at https://www.813area.com/tampa/channelside/events/258843/carry-the-load-5k-ruck-march-tampa%2C-fl.htm) or Light Up Tampa Bay, a Memorial Day weekend celebration for families and people of all ages. Come out and spend time with others in your community in a time of recognition for our freedom to live and work together each day.
Sessums Law Group sends out our sincere thanks to all who have served our country in any capacity. We honor those who gave their lives, and are so grateful for their sacrifice.
Happy Memorial Day from Sessums Law Group!