Memorial Day is a US Federal Holiday observed every year on the last Monday of May. It a time when we remember those who have died while serving in our country's armed forces. It was originally known as Decoration Day as a result of the solider who lost their lives during the Civil War. The graves of these fallen soldiers were decorated with flowers to honor them. The tradition was eventually extended to honor all Americans who died while in military service and it continues today.
This Memorial Day, you can honor these brave soldiers too with your entire family by attending one of the many events happening across the CSRA.
1.Memorial Sunday Bash
Inflatables, food vendors and family friendly fun, attend the BigKidRich Memorial Sunday Bash on May 29 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the BEC Plex at 5955 Jefferson Davis Highway in North Augusta. Hosted by RichKangz Entertainment, the event gives kids an opportunity to meet some of their favorite animated characters and spend time with loved ones. Tickets cost $20 in advance and $25 at the gate and can be purchased here.
2. CAF AirPower History Tour
Get close to aviation history at the Air Power Squadron History Tour, held at the Augusta Regional Airport from May 25 through May 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Several WWII bomber planes, such as the B-29 Superfortress Fifi, will be positioned on the runway for visitors to access the cockpit and take test rides on. Tickets range in price costing adults $20 per person. To book rides and learn more about the experience, visit their website.
3. Aiken Memorial Day Parade
Celebrate and remember United States military members during a Memorial Day Parade on May 28. The parade starts at 10 a.m. in downtown Aiken where Aikenites can watch along the streets for free. To register, visit the Aiken Memorial Day Parade Facebook page and scan a QR code.
There are many other ways to honor Memorial Day with your family. Here are just a few:
1. Organize a neighborhood parade.
Get the kids to decorate their bikes and trikes or use red, white and blue decorations to adorn wagons and strollers to parade around your neighborhood with others. End with a refreshing ice cream treat and enjoy the time with your neighbors.
2. Pause for a moment of silence.
A moment of silence or pray of our fallen heroes seem minor, but it is mighty!
3. Fly the American flag.
On Memorial Day, the flag should first be raised to the top of the staff, then slowly lowered to half-staff, until noon when it should be raised to the top of the staff for the rest of the day.
4. Visit a historical site or cemetery.
Tour a historic battlefield or a soldiers' memorial for a personal look at the sacrifices made by our servicemen. Decorate the graves of soldiers with flags or flowers.
5. Attend a local event in honor of Memorial Day.
Be it a parade, fireworks or another public gathering, join those in your community to mark this special day.
6. Talk to a veteran.
Take the kids to hear the story of a serviceman or servicewoman and encourage them to ask questions to better understand the sacrifices military members make. Bring cookies or flowers or a handmade note as a sign of thanks.
7. Make a patriotic craft or recipe.
Honoring Memorial Day can be as simple as taking some time out of the day to remember the true meaning of this important day and showing respect to those who have given their lives in service to the country, as well as by teaching your children about our county's rich history, the importance of freedom, and the sacrifices that have been made to make the USA what it is today.
Whatever you choose to do, big or small, make sure it done in love and gratitude for our fallen heroes.
#MacKidAugusta
