With many of you most likely making your Memorial Day plans that involve escaping work and school with a weekend getaway, trip to the beach, or barbecue, it’s important to remember the real purpose of this special day of remembrance.
Our blog post this week covers the meaning of Memorial Day, local San Diego Memorial Day celebrations, and ideas for remembering loved ones with Memorial Day wreaths or patriotic flowers.
The Meaning of Memorial Day
The first Memorial Day was celebrated in 1868 by its creator, General John Logan, who also started the tradition of laying flowers on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery.
Since then, it has become a Federal holiday where the country celebrates with local Memorial Day parades and remembrance ceremonies as well as the Moment of Remembrance that occurs at 3pm local time in your city. It’s a moment to stop and quietly reflect on what all soldiers who have died fighting for freedom have done for us and our country.
Memorial Day Celebrations in San Diego
In San Diego, there are a number of ways to join in Memorial Day celebrations:
- Memorial Day at Embarcadero – Visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego and take a cruise on the bay.
- The USS MidwayLegacy Week –The USS Midway will be hosting a variety of events to honor our military, including a Veterans Wreath Ceremony and two concerts. Military heroes will also be honored and remembered on the flight deck hosted by American Legion Post.
- Memorial Day Observances Day Ceremony – The Veterans Museum & Memorial Center will be holding a special service event in Balboa Park.
- The Vietnam Veterans of America – The Vietnam Veterans of America will be hosting a memorial service at the San Diego Vietnam Peace Memorial.
Memorial Day Flowers and Wreaths
Whether you have a personal connection to Memorial Day and you will be purchasing a Memorial Day wreath or Memorial Day flowers to place at a grave site or you are buying some patriotic flowers to decorate for a Memorial Day picnic or Memorial Day barbecue, remember those who have given their lives as well as their families who supported their decision to enter the armed forces.
On behalf of all of us at Allen’s Flowers and Plants, we want to send our heartfelt thanks to all who participate in the Armed Forces to keep our freedoms and protect our country.
