A couple of weeks ago, I was starting to wonder if most of us knew or remembered the true meaning for Memorial Day. I saw and heard some saying that on this Memorial Day we should remember the families of Police (Peace Officers) and Firefighters and honor. I read articles or heard many others talking about honoring active duty service members and veterans on this day. And, of course, saw and heard a lot of advertisements for Memorial Day sales, especially of mattresses, alcohol and picnic related items.

Then at the Memorial Day ceremony at the town's Veterans Memorial, I heard two veterans that had exactly the right words about the meaning of the day. VFW Post 7507 Commander Carl Krawczyk and AmVets state of Arizona Commander Gordon Rohn both gave brilliant speeches that absolutely hit on the true meaning and reason for Memorial Day. These were two of the best speeches I have heard at a Memorial Day ceremony. Well done to all who participated, especially to AmVets Post 7 who organized this year's commemorative ceremony.

Memorial Day was created by Congress to commemorate and honor those in the armed forces who died in service to their country. Originally it was called Decoration Day and was to commemorate the civil war dead, but eventually expanded to include all war dead.

Yes, Active Duty service members, veterans, peace officers and firemen deserve to be celebrated and they are; each on their own day. May 15 is Peace Officers Memorial Day to commemorate deceased Peace Officers. May 21 is Armed Forces Day where we celebrate those on active duty. November 11th is Veterans Day where we celebrate all veterans. Each October there is Fallen Firefighters weekend to commemorate Firefighters. Memorial Day is set aside to commemorate and honor our war dead.