Today is Memorial Day. Although many people automatically think of a day off of work, the first day of beach season or barbequing. But that’s not what Memorial Day is about - it is to pay respect to the men and women who have died in service of their country. Even though Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day comes once a year, there are everyday ways we can remember those who have died, those who have served and those who are serving:

• Thank A Veteran Or Military Personnel - Anytime you see a veteran or someone in the service, thank them for what they’ve done for the country.
• Send A Card Through Let’s Say Thanks - Let’s Say Thanks is a Xerox sponsored program that allows you to send a free printed postcard to military personnel stationed overseas showing your support and appreciation.
• Go To A Parade - Many veterans march in the parades, so show your appreciation by clapping and making noise as they go by.
• Brush Up On Your U.S. History - Learn about what our country fought for. About.com has a list of American involvement in wars and a list of resource links that will help you learn more about the wars.
• Learn About Your Family History - If you have relatives that are serving in or have served in wars, learn about what they’ve done, where they’ve been and if they’ve received any medals. Write this history down.
• Find Ways To Volunteer - There are ways you can help either those coping with or are affected by someone’s involvement in the war. For instance, therapists have volunteered to provide free services for troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Or, perhaps you can help a single mother whose husband is in the war by babysitting or helping her shop. There are plenty of opportunities - check out USA Freedom Corps and America Supports You for more ideas.
• Place Flags On Veteran Graves - Contact your local veteran auxiliary, such as the American Legion or VFW, to inquire about placing flags on veterans’ graves. Many will allow you to come help place flags on graves on days like Memorial Day. Also, if you know of a cemetery that doesn’t have a groundskeeper to take care of the gravesites, consider helping clean graves or bring fresh flowers. CNN has tips on how to do so.
• Make A Donation - Whether monetary or even blood, there are ways to make donations to help our troops. Consider giving to United Services Organization or the Red Cross.
• Send A Care Kit To Troops - Any Soldier has a list of soldiers’ names, needs and where to send care packages to make their lives a little easier and more comfortable.
• Teach Children About History And Helping Others - A day like Memorial Day is the perfect day to teach children about sacrifice and helping others, which is what our service men and women have done.

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