How to Visit a Local Cemetery on Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a time to recognize the sacrifice of so many soldiers who have lost their lives in service of their country. There are many ways to pay tribute to those soldiers and to commemorate their service to the nation, including attending Memorial Day parades, candlelight vigils and other Memorial Day events. Another way to remember fallen soldiers is to visit a local cemetery.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Flowers
• Stick flags

1. Purchase some small stick flags or flowers. Stick flags are commonly sold around Memorial Day and can be found in grocery stores, party stores and many other places very affordably.
2. Visit a cemetery nearby or several cemeteries. While many veterans are buried in Arlington National Cemetery and other veteran cemeteries, many families also opt to have their family member buried in a local cemetery.
3. Look for grave markers that identify the deceased as a war veteran. This is typically proudly displayed on the head stone or marker. Also look for rank prefixes to indicate members of the Armed Forces.
4. Place a flower, flowers or a stick flag at the gravesite of the war veterans you find. It's possible that the family of the fallen soldier will visit the grave and see your tribute, or no one may ever see it. Either way, your tribute will honor the sacrifice of an American hero.
5. Take a moment to reflect on the sacrifice of each of the war veterans whose graves you encounter. Memorial Day is more than just a day off work, an excuse for a barbecue or an opportunity to take advantage of a great sale. Memorial Day is also a day of remembrance for the lives lost in the cause of freedom.

Tips & Warnings

• On Memorial Day at 3 pm, the nation observes a collective "National Moment of Rememberance." At this moment, silence is observed in honor of lost soldiers.
• If your children are old enough, take them with you to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers in your community. Memorial Day is a prime opportunity to teach your children that freedom comes at a price and that many of a nation's soldiers are called to pay that price.
• If you have a particular war veteran you would like to remember, most flower shops supply special Memorial Day arrangements you can purchase.
• Take care to show respect when you visit a local cemetery. Look for posted notices that identify areas that are off limits and abide by the rules and regulations of the cemeteries.