Memorial Day is an important holiday for the military community and the country to remember those who have served and died. Many Americans spend the day off work at a barbecue or at the beach, where the true meaning of the day can get overlooked. Cohen Veterans Network, a nonprofit network of mental health clinics for veterans, service members and their families, is offering information and resources to emphasize the meaning of Memorial Day and the significance of honoring those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
What are ways to honor the fallen on Memorial Day?
Less than 1% of Americans are serving in the military but all can honor the fallen.
- Observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3PM. Where ever you are, join in a nationwide moment of unity at 3PM your local time to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made and the families left behind.
- Display the American flag at home. Remember these guidelines for proper display of the American Flag.
- Visit a military cemetery or memorial. Find one near you or explore one virtually.
- Read stories of those we've lost to honor their legacy. View the Tribute Walls from Tragedy Assistance Project orĀ Travis Manion Foundation.
- Talk to your children about the true meaning of Memorial Day. Use this presentation to discuss with children. Find more educational resources from Wreaths Across America or Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
- Take part in a Memorial Day event such as a Carry the Load rally or run, local or National Memorial Day Parade, or the PBS National Memorial Day Concert
- Enjoy the day... our military members served so that we can enjoy our American way of life. Have a cookout, go to the pool, spend time with loved ones - and still remember the reason for Memorial Day and why we have the freedoms to enjoy the day.
- Find a Memorial Day Event through Carry the Load.
Raise Awareness about the Meaning of Memorial Day
Talk to your Kids about Memorial Day
Part of commemorating Memorial Day is preserving the legacy of those we've lost, and this includes ensuring younger generations understand the true meaning of the day! We've created a "Learning about Memorial Day" guide for kids to help teach children what Memorial Day is and why it's so important.
Support Surviving Families
For families and loved ones of those who have served and died, Memorial Day is EVERY day.
Healing from loss can be a difficult process to go through alone. Cohen Veterans Network provides accessible, high-quality mental health care to veterans, service members, and military families across the United States. Donate to support military families.
Cohen Veterans Network
Cohen Veterans Network (CVN) is a national not-for-profit philanthropic network of mental health clinics serving post-9/11 veterans, service members and their families. Learn more about CVN: cohenveteransnetwork.org