Memorial Day is more than just mattress sales and backyard barbecues (although we do enjoy a great deal and some tasty eats). It's actually about honoring our fallen soldiers. That might seem like a tall order but there are things we can do to honor their memory and sacrifice. So mix it up this Memorial Day. Feel free to fire up the grill, buy that new appliance but also remember the reason for the season and add one of these options to the day's agenda.
1. Write letters to active duty soldiers
Lonely and far from home, our soldiers love to get mail. Spend a few minutes thanking them for their service then ship them off via one of these organizations:
2. Volunteer with a veteran's organization
Contact your local VA hospital or Disabled American Veterans location and see how you can help. Be a foster family to a dog that will become a service animal for veterans. Or get involved with a home-building organization like Homes For Our Troops and help welcome vets to their new houses.
3. Clip coupons for the troops
Sounds strange, but those coupons you intended to use but never did are still good for six months past their expiration dates at overseas military bases. So start cleaning out your coupon drawer and send some savings to heroes across the world using one of these services:
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4. Support veteran-owned businesses
Spend those Memorial Day dollars supporting a veteran-owned business in your area. Retail therapy that helps everyone.
5. Attend a parade or other event
Find a parade, wreath-laying ceremony, cemetery event, or other Memorial Day activity in your community. Your presence makes a difference and helps you keep the real holiday message top of mind.
