Three ways to pay tribute this Memorial Holiday

As we head into Memorial Day in the United States, it’s a time to reflect on the importance of the holiday and how each of us in the U.S can pay tribute over the holiday weekend.  

What is Memorial Day? 
Memorial Day began after the Civil War to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers. The idea spread throughout various states and New York became the first state to recognize it as a holiday. 

After World War I, it evolved to include all that died in America’s wars and become more widely recognized throughout the country. In 1971, Congress recognized Memorial Day as a national holiday.  

Learn more about the origins of Memorial Day.   

Visit a military memorial, museum, or event in your community 
Set aside time on Memorial Day to participate in a tribute to those that have fallen in the line of duty. I’m grateful that the Salt River Pima Indian Community recently opened the USS Arizona Memorial Gardens at Salt River in my home state of Arizona. It is a place of solitude and reflection to learn more about our history and honor all those that lost their lives that fateful day. What may be in your town that you could visit to reflect on this day?  

Volunteer to honor the fallen 
Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day and after the Civil Way, it was a time for the community to gather to decorate the graves of all soldiers. In each of our communities, this day marks the opportunity to volunteer to lay flags or flowers at your local veteran cemetery.  

Supporting families of the fallen 
On this holiday, we also honor military spouses and the families of those that paid the ultimate sacrifice. We have the opportunity in each of our communities to pay it forward to these families. You may consider searching for ways to support families of the fallen by connecting with a base or chapters supporting military spouses in your area. It may be a donation of your resources or your time. The USO or Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) may be good places to start to find how you can pay it forward.  

To our TTEC family who have experienced the loss of a loved one, we extend our gratitude for their ultimate sacrifice. To our veterans, military spouses, and active service team members, we thank you for your commitment and your service. We’ll pause at 3 p.m. local time on Monday to reflect on those who died while serving the country as encouraged by the National Moment of Remembrance Act. 

However you choose to honor the day, we wish you a safe holiday weekend.