Memorial Day means something different to each of us. The holiday itself was created after the Civil War in remembrance of the military men and women who died while serving in the Armed Services. This is a distinction from Armed Services Day, also in May, which recognizes those individuals who are currently alive and serving in the military and from Veteran’s Day which honors everyone who has previously served in the military, both dead and still alive.
Today, many people cherish Memorial Day because it is a three day weekend that connotes summer begins. For others, it means school is out. Time to go to the beach. Time to hit the malls for the weekend deals.
Time to spend with family. When spending time with family, especially older parents who we have not seen in a while, it reminds us we are not getting any younger. We may also notice a change in our parents’ abilities or behaviors. Sure, dad may be able to tell you stories of when he was in WWII or Korea, but can’t remember that he just asked you the same question four times.
In the film, Memorial Day, released in 2012, a 13 year old boy finds his grandpa’s WWII footlocker. The writers successfully use flashbacks and flash forwards to parallel grandpa’s experience with the boy’s future military experience in Iraq. How can you use this weekend to reflect back, memorialize the experience of those who have come and gone before you, and look forward to ensure your life continues or becomes what you want it to be? Watching the movie with the whole family this weekend may be a special way kick off the Memorial Day celebrations.
As Lawyers With Purpose who have the benefit of counseling with family of military service members who have died while serving their country, we have the unique ability to share information about the benefits available to widows of wartime veterans. Together, through the sharing of stories and possibilities, we keep the veteran and his or her legacy alive. Who will you be remembering this weekend? How have they impacted your life?
Victoria L. Collier, Certified Elder Law Attorney, Fellow of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Co-Founder, Lawyers with Purpose, LLC, Veteran of the U.S.A.F. and author of 47 Secret Veterans’ Benefits for Seniors…Benefits You Have Earned but Don’t Know About.
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