Honoring Memorial Day 2026

Let's not forget Memorial Day's meaning, remember our Armed Forces, Reserves and Veterans, including wounded warriors, and those serving in harm's way. 

Growing up in a small town I remember the parades honoring our veterans, as the VFW members passed by, some in old military vehicles, some on horses, and some in parade uniforms.

I also remember other veterans and the wives of deceased veterans on downtown streets going from person-to-person selling artificial Red Poppy mementos for 2-cents or a nickel to raise money for veteran activities. As the evening turned to twilight, we might even have a few fireworks overhead, or sparklers in the hands of kids (typically older than me) running up and down the sidewalks. 

Of course, everyone gave the veterans a nickel or dime rather than two...