Paddu Melanahalli’s Post

Memorial Day is different than Veterans Day. Please don’t thank a veteran for our service on Memorial Day. Veterans understand and appreciate your intentions; however, #MemorialDay honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation in war and peace. Instead, you might ask that #veteran or #GoldStarFamily Member how they plan to remember the brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, friends and loved ones who gave “the last full measure of devotion.” Some other ideas before enjoying the holiday include: - Learning more about the history of Memorial Day (https://lnkd.in/gnUY3Ky) - Learning more about our Gold Star Families (Home - America's Gold Star Families ( https://lnkd.in/g2SZYb6P) - Observing a moment of silence at 3:00 p.m. local time (National Moment of Remembrance - The Memorial Day Foundation, https://lnkd.in/g-TnNRqq) - Learning more about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Sentinels who guard the fallen (Society of the Honor Guard, tombguard.org or https://lnkd.in/g6PrYXsQ) - Visiting a local #VACemetery (https://lnkd.in/g2YjRyUR) -      Testing your Memorial Day knowledge: https://lnkd.in/g-Apb48u  -      Or come up with your own ideas. #poppies

As I glance at the folded flag encased on my shelf, memories flood my heart. Each fold represents sacrifice, valor, and unwavering dedication to our nation. Let me share the symbolism behind this revered emblem: The First Fold: Holding the flag by its edge, I fold it lengthwise. This initial fold reminds me of the unity that binds us as Americans—diverse yet indivisible. The Second Fold: Another lengthwise fold follows, ensuring the blue field with its stars remains visible. It’s a reminder of the sky above, the vastness of freedom our heroes defended. Triangular Folds Begin: Now, I create a triangle by bringing the folded edge of the striped corner up to the open edge. This fold signifies honor, duty, and sacrifice. Forming the Second Triangle: Turning the top outer point inward, I shape another triangle. It represents resilience—the ability to endure and protect. Continuing the Triangular Folds: I repeat these folds until I reach the blue field—the heart of our flag. Thirteen folds in total, each carrying profound meaning. Tucking the Excess Material: The final fold tucks the excess material into a three-corner triangle—a “cocked hat.” It symbolizes liberty, justice, and the pursuit of happiness. This folded flag isn’t just fabric; it’s a testament to selflessness. We fold it with reverence during memorial ceremonies, honoring those who gave their all. Let us #neverforget the sacrifices made by our heroes—their legacy lives on in every fold. #memorialday #veterans

Today, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their courage and dedication have shaped the freedoms we cherish and the values we hold dear. On this Memorial Day, let's also commit to living in a way that honors their memory. Let their sacrifice inspire us to be better, do better, and support each other. As we reflect on their legacy, let's also consider how we can learn from their selflessness and commitment: 🔹 Embrace Service: Whether in our careers or communities, let’s strive to serve others. True leadership often means putting the needs of others before our own. 🔹 Foster Unity: Our greatest strength lies in our diversity and our ability to come together. In our workplaces and beyond, let’s work to bridge divides and build inclusive environments where everyone feels valued. 🔹 Commit to Excellence: The dedication of our fallen heroes reminds us of the importance of giving our best in everything we do. Let’s aim for excellence, not just for personal success but for the greater good. 🔹 Practice Gratitude: Take a moment today to thank those who serve, from military personnel to first responders and community leaders. A simple thank you can go a long way in acknowledging their efforts and sacrifices. Let's honor and remember those who have given their lives for our freedom. Let's also commit to living in a way that honors their memory. #MemorialDay #HonorAndRemember #Service #Unity #Excellence #Gratitude

Memorial Day, from the perspective of a veteran, is a solemn day of remembrance and honor. It’s a day to reflect on the sacrifices of those who have fallen in the line of duty, protecting the freedoms and values we hold dear. For veterans who have experienced the realities of war firsthand, Memorial Day carries a profound significance that goes beyond the typical celebrations and gatherings. It’s a day marked by memories of comrades who never made it home, whose laughter and courage are remembered in the quiet moments of a veteran’s heart. It’s a time to think about the families left behind, the empty seats at dinner tables, and the personal stories of bravery that ended too soon. Veterans understand the weight of loss and the price of freedom in a way that is deeply personal and often painful. Memorial Day is not about the living; it’s about honoring those who have given their lives for something greater than themselves. It’s about the men and women buried in cemeteries across the nation, who were more than just soldiers; they were loved ones, friends, and family. For veterans, the day may also bring a mix of emotions, including pride in their service and a sense of camaraderie with those who understand the cost of war. Yet, it can also be a challenging time, as the focus on military service and sacrifices can trigger memories and emotions related to their own experiences. As a nation, we can honor the true meaning of Memorial Day by participating in commemorative activities, observing moments of silence, and supporting organizations that provide resources and support to veterans and their families. It’s a day to ensure that the legacy of the fallen is not forgotten but is carried forward with respect and gratitude for the freedoms their sacrifices have secured.

Freedom isn’t free

🇺🇸 As Memorial Day approaches, it’s crucial to reflect on the profound significance behind this federal holiday. Not just a day for barbecues and family gatherings, Memorial Day serves a solemn purpose: to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the U.S. military. My own memories of Memorial Day are bittersweet. Growing up, I watched my community come together to decorate the town with flags and flowers, each one representing a story, a family, a loss. It was a day of collective mourning and gratitude, strikingly different from the usual festive spirit of other holidays. 💔 The history of Memorial camp dates back to May 30, 1868, when it was first observed to honor fallen soldiers of the Civil War. Its significance grew to encompass all American military personnel who died in service following World War I. Unlike Veterans Day, which honors all who served, Memorial Day specifically remembers those who lost their lives. Here’s how many of us observe this day: - Visiting cemeteries and memorials - Participating in local parades and memorial services - Holding a moment of silence at 3:00 p.m. to reflect on the bravery and sacrifice of the fallen 🤔 But what do these observances mean to you? How do you honor this day, and what conversations do you hope it sparks among the younger generations? As we approach Memorial Day on May 27, 2024, let’s not only enjoy the freedom of a three-day weekend but also embrace the responsibility to remember and honor those who can no longer celebrate with us. 🌸 If you have personal stories or traditions related to Memorial Day, I encourage you to share them. Let’s use this space to keep the memory and significance of this day alive. #MemorialDay #HonorAndRemember #Military #USHistory #NationalService 🇺🇸 https://lnkd.in/eC7nPwj9

Today, on Remembrance Day, we honor the profound legacy of courage, sacrifice, and hope left by those who served in our armed forces. This day is more than a remembrance of past battles; it’s a moment to reflect on the values these brave individuals defended—freedom, resilience, and unity. Each poppy we wear is a symbol of gratitude, a small gesture in remembrance of lives dedicated to something larger than themselves. They remind us that peace isn’t just inherited; it’s something that’s built and preserved through sacrifice. As we observe a moment of silence, let’s also think about how we can apply these values in our daily lives. How can we foster resilience, seek unity, and contribute meaningfully to our communities? Today, in honoring their memory, let’s strive to carry forward their legacy in how we live and lead. Lest we forget. #RemembranceDay #LestWeForget #LegacyOfService #ReflectAndRemember

As I reflect on our celebrations of Memorial Day and D-day, I am so humbled. Countless brave, selfless Americans sacrificed everything to protect our freedoms and the American way of life. I am so thankful. Today our freedoms are not being used to have robust debates to bring about positive change. Instead, they are being used to polarize, divide and tear our nation apart. You are either "for us" or "against us." If you are "against us" then you are the enemy. Instead of tolerance we have mocking, ridicule and outright hatred. Where is tolerance in this? Tolerance does not mean I accept, celebrate and endorse your view point or personal lifestyle choices. Rather, it means I can disagree with your view or choice and still respect you as a person and treat you with the common courtesy and respect that all deserve. Tolerance is a fundamental by-product of individual rights and freedoms, yet it is lacking in today's society. Our brave military sacrificed everything to preserve our way of life. Today we have people who have never served or sacrificed anything for anyone doing everything they can to destroy our way of life. What has happened to our nation? It must break the hearts of our veterans. May we as a nation reflect on this and relearn common courtesy, decency, tolerance for and respect of others. May we use our freedoms to make our communities and nation a better place to live for all, not worse.

🇺🇸 Honoring Our Heroes on Memorial Day 🇺🇸 "Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices." – Harry S. Truman Today, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their courage, dedication, and selflessness have secured the freedoms we cherish every day. As we reflect on the significance of this day, let's also recognize the families who have lost loved ones. Their strength and resilience are a testament to the profound impact of these heroes. Ways to Honor and Remember: Participate in Memorial Day Events: Attend ceremonies and parades to show your support. Visit Memorials and Cemeteries: Pay your respects at local memorials and veterans' gravesites. Support Veterans: Donate to organizations that assist veterans and their families. Share Stories: If you have a story of a loved one who served, share it to keep their memory alive. Let’s commit to remembering their sacrifices, not just today, but every day. Their legacy is our enduring duty. How are you honoring Memorial Day? Share your thoughts and stories below. #MemorialDay #HonorOurHeroes #RememberAndRespect #ServiceAndSacrifice #Veterans #Honor #Service

Memorial Day is fast approaching but what IS Memorial Day exactly? Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day 2024 will occur on Monday, May 27. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. That is the "official" definition. To me Memorial Day is my great grandfather, my grandfather, my aunts and Uncles, my cousins, my neighbors across the street, my college buddies, my coworkers, and my friends. They all served. They all did something I wasn't prepared to do. They all had various reasons for doing so and those reason aren't important. They literally signed up to put themselves in harm's way with the clear understanding that they may have to lay down their lives in some far-off country. Why? Because at their very core they believed in what it is to be American. They knew that freedom, by any definition, is not a given and it certainly isn't free. So this weekend while you grill out or attend a concert or whatever, please if only for a moment remember what Memorial Day is really all about. Our Freedoms depend on it. #thankyou #memorialday #memorialdayweekend #usa #love #america #memorial #mdw #like #memories #military #veterans #summer #family #redwhiteandblue #remember #freedom #happymemorialday #neverforget #honor #army #friends #sale #marines #navy #airforce #america #remember