Many Americans celebrate Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial start of summer. Memorial Day holds a different meaning for families who have lost a loved one in service to our country.
From parades and solemn observances to groups of scouts decorating graves of veterans, Memorial Day will be observed throughout America as a day to honor the memories of the brave men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice to preserve and protect freedom in our country and around the world.
in Virginia is the most famous of more than 130 national cemeteries in America. At Arlington National Cemetery and other national cemeteries across the country, American flags will be placed one foot in front and centered in front of each grave marker in advance of Memorial Day.
Originally known as Decoration Day, the holiday was renamed Memorial Day following World War I and evolved into a day to honor the fallen from all wars. Once observed on May 30, Memorial Day has been observed on the last Monday in May since 1971.
Here in Central Virginia, Memorial Day observances will be held at Monument Terrace and the National D-Day Memorial on Monday. In addition, Old City Cemetery will hold the annual Confederate Memorial Day Service on Sunday afternoon and the National D-Day Memorial will host "Stars and Stripes Forever," a patriotic music concert, on Saturday night.
My endless gratitude goes out to all who have given their lives in service to our country to advance freedom for all. To the families of those who were declared Missing in Action or taken Prisoner of War, thank you for your family member's sacrifice.
For those currently serving in the military and all veterans, thank you for the daily sacrifices you make in the name of freedom.
As we approach Memorial Day, I offer a special thanks to my first hero, my Dad, Robert Atkins, who served in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Thank you for teaching us all the meaning of courage.
