Good afternoon,
While doing a Google search on Delaware Memorial Day events, I came across some interesting headlines and descriptions.
It was a little jarring to see these words at a time when we remember those who paid the ultimate price as well as friends and family members who served, returned, and are no longer with us.
One headline proclaimed, “Memorial Day weekend kicks off rocking season for Maryland, Delaware beaches.” Another description of an event labeled it as “festive.”
Call me an old crank, but the words Memorial Day, rocking, and festive should never be used in the same sentence.
Over the years, Memorial Day has come to commemorate the kick-off of the summer season and an economic driver at the Delaware beaches. All too often, it is confused with Veterans Day.
Granted, it’s a long weekend that allows many of us to string together a few days off after that interminably long period following New Year’s.
I don’t blame anyone for enjoying the (sometimes) good weather and the chance to get away.
But something has been lost.
The day that originally honored those who died fighting for the Union in the Civil War (freed slaves may have been the first to mark the occasion) once had a more solemn side. That was the reason for its original name – Decoration Day.
A couple of ideas for people sticking around this weekend.
Visit Veterans Memorial Park near the Delaware Memorial Bridge and take time to read some of the names of New Jersey and Delaware residents. You will find it a moving experience.
Sunday morning was not a good time, with President Joe Biden speaking at an invitation only ceremony.
You can also attend the Memorial Day Parade in Wilmington. It is billed as the oldest continuously held parade in the nation.
There is nothing wrong with getting together with friends and family or enjoying a quick getaway as we emerge from the pandemic. But at some point, take a moment to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. – Doug Rainey.
