Memorial Day 2024: Honoring Courage and Sacrifice
Memorial Day is a time to pause and reflect on the profound sacrifices made by the men and women who have given their lives in service to their nation.
On May 27th, as we mark Memorial Day, we’re not just remembering historical battles or distant conflicts; we’re also honoring the recent sacrifices made by our service members. From the war on terror to peacekeeping missions around the globe, the brave men and women of our armed forces continue to stand tall in defense of liberty and justice.
As we navigate the complexities of a changing world, it is more important than ever to pause and remember the values for which these heroes fought and died. Freedom, democracy, and the inherent dignity of every human being – these are the principles that unite us as a nation and inspire us to honor the sacrifices of those who came before us.
Whether through acts of service in our communities, supporting organizations that aid veterans and their families, or simply living our lives with gratitude for the freedoms we enjoy, each of us has a role to play in continuing the legacy of those who have gone before us.
Within the past year, Toshiba has launched partnerships with the Department of Defense’ Military Spouse Employment Partner Program (MSEP) and the Heroes in Transition Program (H.I.T.) embracing a national goal of 5% minimum of all employees being Veterans.
Memorial Day is a solemn occasion to remember and honor the men and women who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Here are a few ways people can pay tribute to the fallen over the Memorial Day Holiday:
- Attend Memorial Day ceremonies: Many communities host Memorial Day ceremonies at local cemeteries, memorials, or veterans’ organizations. Attend these events to show your support and respect.
- Visit cemeteries and memorials: Take time to visit cemeteries and memorials, and place flags, flowers, or other tokens of remembrance on the graves of fallen soldiers.
- Participate in a moment of silence: Observe a moment of silence at 3:00 p.m. local time, as a national moment of remembrance.
- Volunteer: Dedicate some time to volunteer at a veterans’ hospital, nursing home, or with organizations that support veterans and their families. Your service can make a difference in the lives of those who have served.
- Educate others: Take the opportunity to educate others, especially younger generations, about the significance of Memorial Day and the sacrifices made by servicemembers.
- Donate to veterans’ charities: Consider donating to organizations that provide support to veterans and their families or contribute to initiatives that honor fallen soldiers.
- Support Gold Star families: Reach out to Gold Star families (families who have lost a loved one in military service) in your community to offer your support and gratitude.
- Attend a parade or military tribute: Many communities hold parades or military tributes on Memorial Day. Attend these events to show your support and honor the fallen.
- Fly the flag at half-staff: Display the American flag at half-staff until noon on Memorial Day, then raise it to full-staff until sunset.
- Reflect and remember: Take time to reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day and remember the sacrifices of those who have given their lives in service to their country. You can do this individually or with family and friends.
As we did last year, we invite you to take a moment to listen to this moving rendition of Taps in honor of all who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
