As a nation, we are called to reflect on the true meaning of the Memorial Day holiday, which is to honor and recognize America’s military personnel who died serving our Country. Commemorating lives lost is a practice that we at San Diego Hospice embrace and support for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one.

Rituals of remembrance surrounding Memorial Day are a reflection of how we mourn individually and as a society. Liane Fry, a licensed marriage and family therapist at The Center for Grief Care and Education, noted in a previous blog post that “…acts of mourning seem rooted in our need to give form to feelings and thoughts, to concretely honor the deceased, and to demonstrate what the deceased mean to us. Further, these acts also serve, whether intentionally or as a by-product, to draw a community of grievers together.” This explanation can describe the power and purpose of Memorial Day.

In San Diego, there are many events scheduled in honor of Memorial Day. One of the most noted events will take place on Monday, May 28, 2012 at the Veterans Museum and Memorial Center located at 2115 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101. Memorial Day will be observed at the Veterans Memorial Garden beginning at 7:30 a.m. with the Reading of the Names followed by a formal ceremony with guest speakers at 10 a.m. Speakers include Senator John McCain, Govenor Mitt Romney, Councilman Carl DeMaio, Mrs. Kim Dang Trang, San Diego County Veteran of the Year David Dickey, and Nick Popaditch. The Museum’s website notes that they anticipate a large attendance for this event and standing room is available for all. The Veterans Museum and Memorial Center phone number is 619-239-2300.

Nationally, to strengthen the tradition of honoring America’s fallen military on Memorial Day, and to ensure that their heroic sacrifices are never forgotten,  “The National Moment of Remembrance Act,” was signed into law in 2000. The National Moment of Remebrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time, on Memorial Day, for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to our nation.

Information on Memorial Day 2012 events is available for the North County, East County and Central San Diego. Whatever your plans, please make sure to plan ahead, drive safely, and remember the true meaning of the holiday in commemorating the lives of those who died serving our country.