Being there: Memorial Day ceremony needs more community attention

One of the veterans in attendance at Monday's Memorial Day ceremony got tears in his eyes when he talked about it.

Other veterans have mentioned it, too.

And they are all right. We do not pay enough attention to Memorial Day.

The audience was small at Monday's ceremony. And, if truth were told, it is small every year.

There are many excuses to run through when we talk about missing the ceremony -- beach trips, family obligations and, in some cases, work commitments.

But the truth is, we could be there -- and we should be there.

Memorial Day is about remembering those who gave their lives in the battles for freedom around the world. It represents decades of sacrifice and heroes who deserve to be remembered and honored.

But we forget that sometimes -- mostly because Memorial Day is the official kickoff for the summer travel season.

But more of us should attend the events that mark the day. More should be there when the flags are laid on graves and when stories are told about those who gave their lives in service to this country.

It is important that we remember.

So even though this year's commemoration is over, take the time today to think about those whom we have lost.

And make plans to be part of the ceremony next year.

Published in Editorials on May 26, 2015 10:59 AM