(Note: this blog was first published in October 2016. With Memorial Day just passed and Independence Day just around the corner, it seems the perfect time to revisit the origins and meanings of our patriotic holidays)
Every year we, as Americans, celebrate 3 very important holidays: Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Veteran’s Day. Without sounding schmaltzy, we do live in the greatest country in the world and it’s important to remember WHY we do it.
Memorial Day
We celebrate Memorial Day for all of our men and women who died serving this great country. Memorial Day was formerly known as Declaration Day and originally honored only those in the civil war. But as the US found itself in other major conflicts, it evolved to honor all American military that died in all wars.
For decades Memorial Day was observed on May 30th, but in 1968 Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in order to create a three-day weekend for federal employees. This change went into effect in 1971.
Many put up a flag to show respect or visit the gravesite of a loved one, but as time has passed many have forgotten about those sacrifices. Our clients at Summit Executive Suites close their offices in honor of those who died for our country, and they use the weekend to start their summer or plan a mini vacation with their family. I lost an Uncle in the war, have you lost a family member? Do you close your office in honor of this day? How do you honor the day with family and friends?
July 4th – Independence Day
On this day in 1776, 13 colonies signed the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain and this marked the birth of the United States of America. The colonies wanted to be free to make their own decisions, to govern themselves and breathe the sweet air of Liberty. John Adams, a signer of the Declaration of Independence thought that Americans should henceforth celebrate with an anniversary festival—to this day the 4th of July is the most patriotic holiday celebrated in the United States.
Many people in cities throughout America take part in the celebration by watching parades, fireworks, enjoying cookouts or just having an extra day to be with their family. It’s important to remember the significance of our freedom and how many countries today still do not enjoy the same freedoms we do, even the ones we take for granted like education and the freedom to pursue whatever career we choose.
Veterans Day
Veterans Day is observed every year on November 11th. This day was previously known as Armistice Day and was celebrated for the signing of the armistice with Germany that ended hostilities during World War I. Now we honor all men and women that served as Military veterans in the U.S. Armed Forces throughout history.
Veterans Day is not just observed in the United States but also in other countries around the world. This day is not to be mistaken for Memorial Day that honors those who died while serving in the military services. On this day we pay tribute to our men and women who served in the military to protect our great country with such strength and great leadership to allow us to enjoy the freedoms and lifestyle that we often take for granted.
Veterans Day is not a legal holiday for all workers, but I’m sure everyone in our Suites has their hearts open to all whose families have someone serving overseas or lost in the military.
These important days in history are meant to bring family and friends together and remind us how great our country really is. It should give all Americans the sense of pride that our forefathers had the foresight to create a proud, strong country for all the future generations to come.
Here at Summit Executive Suites we like to celebrate our clients’ continued growth and independence. Their continued success is our success. We enjoy celebrating with our clients several times a year and we never forget just how grateful we are to work, live and play in the United States of America. Come in for a tour of our suites and enjoy the relaxed, professional environment we take pride in.