By April Rodgers, Content Coordinator | FreeWire Magazine
As the end of May approaches, American flags begin appearing in yards, store windows, and along city sidewalks. Patriotic banners wave proudly, and grills are fired up for what many consider the unofficial start of summer. But for veterans and military families, Memorial Day carries a weight much heavier than sunshine and barbecues.
It’s not uncommon to hear someone wish a veteran a “Happy Memorial Day,” or to thank them for their service on this particular holiday. While the sentiment comes from a good place, there’s a difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day — and understanding that difference matters, especially to those who have served or lost someone who did.
Memorial Day is for the Fallen.
Observed on the last Monday in May, Memorial Day is a solemn tribute to the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It’s a day of remembrance, reflection, and gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice. These are the brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, friends, and parents who never made it home.
Veterans Day is for the Living.
Veterans Day, observed each year on November 11, honors all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces — living or dead — with a special focus on thanking living veterans for their service and dedication.
Why the Distinction Matters.
To many veterans, especially those who’ve lost fellow soldiers, Memorial Day is personal. It’s a day marked by memories, by visits to cemeteries and memorial walls, and by the sound of Taps played at dusk. When we blur the lines between Memorial Day and Veterans Day, we risk overlooking the unique pain and pride that Memorial Day represents.
But this isn’t a call to avoid celebrating.
In fact, it’s just the opposite. Celebrating with Purpose If you’re gathering with friends this Memorial Day — enjoying family time, cookouts, or parades — do it with joy. That freedom to celebrate, to live, to laugh? It was paid for. While Memorial Day isn’t the time to thank every veteran (save that for November), it is the perfect time to quietly reflect on those who never came home and to be grateful for the life we get to live because of theirs.
Here in Bucyrus, the community will gather on Monday, May 27, for the annual Memorial Day Parade at 9:30 a.m. The procession will travel from Washington Square down South Sandusky Avenue and turn onto Oakwood Avenue and will make its way to Oakwood Cemetery, where a service will be held. Later in the day, the American Legion Post 181 in Bucyrus will host a hog roast from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Veterans are welcome to enjoy a meal in the downstairs canteen for free, and all other guests are invited to attend by donation.
Whether you attend a ceremony, raise a flag, or simply pause in the evening as Taps echoes in your mind, there are many ways to show respect. While Memorial Day is set aside for those who gave all, we should never miss a chance to thank those who served and did come home. Especially when you see a veteran wearing a ball cap that proudly displays their branch or the war they fought in — stop and thank them. Not just on Memorial Day or Veterans Day, but any day.
This Memorial Day, let’s celebrate summer’s beginning — but never forget the reason we get to.
