Memorial Day Around Boston – 2011

How will you observe Memorial Day?

Are you ready for the rest, relaxation and fun normally associated with Memorial Day? I confess it has been a long winter and Memorial Day is the symbolic kickoff to the summer season. As much as we make this weekend a focus of fun and relaxation we need to remember what Memorial Day is all about.

Whether you have someone in your family or close circle that has made the ultimate sacrifice for our country or not we owe all of our veterans our respect and remembrance on this the holiday that is meant to commemorate those that died for the United States.

The National WWII Museum polled people regarding the meaning of Memorial Day.  The poll results were released earlier this month that showed that 80 percent of Americans really don’t know what Memorial Day is really all about.  The picture to the left is of the website they started in response to this issue.  MyMemorialDay.org is a simple website that offers 10 ways to observe Memorial Day and a download of a fact sheet on Memorial Day.  I highly recommend including this as part of your Memorial Day weekend.

As last year you can see a blanket of flags that have been put on the Boston Common.  I plan to bring my kids there at some point.  The Mass Military Hero Fund has again put up around 20000 flags for those that have died in Massachusetts across time.  Just looking at some the videos on this is humbling.  The flags will be on display throughout the Memorial Day weekend.  You can also still donate to the fund toward this effort.

Have a safe and meaningful 2011 Memorial Day!

Thanks WilletPR for the footage from last year:

Leann Rimes sings Amazing Grace:

Related posts:

Memorial Day Street Performer Extravaganza at Faneuil Hall