Not Just Another Memorial Day

For many people, Memorial Day is just a day for family gatherings or camping, or maybe a free day to catch up with yard work. Some people make the rounds of area cemeteries where loved ones have been laid to rest. Others may attend a special Memorial Day Observance to remember all US military members who have fallen in battle.

I've done all of these, at one time or another. This Memorial Day will be different for me, though, because my Dad's death and burial are still very recent.


When she was presented with the American flag at the end of Dad's graveside service on May 5th,
Mom thanked the officer.
 
Dad was an Army veteran, stationed mostly at Fort Benning, Georgia, during the Korean War. He was active in his local American Legion, even serving as commander at one time. He always participated in the Memorial Day service at the Fairbury Cemetery. Not too many years ago, we were privileged to attend a Memorial Day service in Fairbury.

Dad took part in Fairbury's Memorial Day Observance almost every year.
 

Even though Memorial Day is meant to honor those who lost their lives while serving in our country's military, it has also become a time to decorate the graves of all of our loved ones. I remember Bill's grandma referred to the day as "Decoration Day," as so many of her generation did, since most people took flowers and flags to the cemetery that day. 

The day after Dad's burial, his headstone was decorated with the casket spray. This Memorial Day, we will have the chance to decorate it all over again.


Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants. 
Psalm 116:15

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. 
Psalm 34:18

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