Living the True Meaning of Memorial Day

Andrea Morgan

Many of us think of Memorial Day Weekend as the start of the summer season. Beaches are open, backyard BBQs with family and friends, s’mores around the fire pit and floats in the pool.  

But this year, things are different. COVID-19 has hit us hard. We have been giving thanks to our first responders, meals for frontline workers, and watching Blue Angel flyovers to keep our spirits high. There is another group that has also been truly impacted by these unique circumstances—our military service members.  

A recent article cited that COVID-19 has caused the cancellation of a longtime Memorial Day tradition where Boy Scouts place American flags on the graves of military veterans. This has been a tradition that has gone on for decades, so this year I encourage you to come up with a new tradition to honor those who have served our great country—wear blue: run to remember. Wear blue: run to remember is an annual walk/run that takes place over Memorial Day weekend honoring the service and sacrifice of the military. It is a living tribute to the fallen, the fighting and the families of the U.S. military.  

My family and I will be joining thousands of others this weekend as we honor our military in our own community. In the past, this was an event where people came together to participate; but this year, you can pick your own path and walk or run in remembrance of a fallen soldier. This Memorial Day, my family and I will be walking in honor of United States Army Sergeant Leon M. Johnson, who was killed in Ramadi on October 10, 2005 while serving with the 1st BN, 30th INF REG, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division.  

This is our new Memorial Day tradition. Let’s put remembrance back in Memorial Day. I encourage you to sign up at wearblueruntoremember.org, and inspire a new generation—our children—by the courage and selfless service of our American military heroes.  

Andrea Morgan
Senior Vice President