The origins and meanings of Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day are often confused, and often they’re considered the remembrance of the same thing. Here’s the difference—Veteran’s Day is in recognition of all United States service members who have served in any war. Memorial Day honors those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the United States.
Serving in the Navy and living in Hampton Roads, Va., for over 16 years, the everyday sacrifice of armed service members and their families is all too prevalent. There have been so many men and women who have lost their lives in the name of freedom. Their memories live on in the hearts and minds of their families, and it is on this day each year that we also open our minds and hearts to remember the fallen service members and the families they’ve left behind.
This Memorial Day I will have many of my lost friends in my thoughts. On this day, I will miss every one of them, but also remember their selfless acts of bravery—they are truly the heroes of America.
On Memorial Day the flag of the United States of America is raised to the top of the mast then solemnly lowered to half mast, it remains there until noon. Then it is raised to full mast until evening colors are struck. The flag at half mast is in memory of the men and women who have given their lives in service of this great country. At noon the flag is raised by the living as a sign to never forget their sacrifice and to continue the fight.
This Memorial Day, let us raise a glass with family and friends to show our appreciation for the fallen.
I would like to conclude with a stanza taken from Laurence Binyon poem “For the Fallen,” published in 1914.
They shall not grow old, as we that are left to grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them.
Michael Stacks is owner and head brewer of The Bold Mariner Brewing Company in Virginia Beach. Michael is an active duty service member, with over 15 years in special operations. As a small and independent craft brewer and a member of the United States Navy, we asked him to share his thoughts on Memorial Day.
CraftBeer.com is fully dedicated to small and independent U.S. breweries. We are published by the Brewers Association, the not-for-profit trade group dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s small and independent craft brewers. Stories and opinions shared on CraftBeer.com do not imply endorsement by or positions taken by the Brewers Association or its members.
Share Post