Memorial Day is more than just the start of summer and an occasion for special sales. It is an occasion to reflect and to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

As has become the tradition in Fountain Hills, on Memorial Day our war dead will be honored with a Memorial Day Commemorative Ceremony at the town’s Veterans Memorial in Fountain Park at 9 a.m. Monday, May 25.

Many people confuse Memorial Day with Veterans Day. Memorial Day is officially proclaimed to honor those who have died while serving in the Armed Forces in time of war, while Veterans Day is set aside to honor those who have served or are now serving in the Armed Forces. On both days, we should be thankful for those who serve to protect our American freedoms.

Since not everyone can participate in Memorial Day services, Congress established the “National Moment of Remembrance” and asks that all Americans wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time, on Memorial Day, to pause in an act of national unity for a duration of one minute.

The time 3 p.m. time was chosen because it is a time when most Americans are enjoying their freedoms on the national holiday. This Moment does not replace traditional Memorial Day events, rather, it is an act of national unity in which all Americans, whether alone or with family or friends, honor those who died in service to the United States.

I hope to see you at our town’s Veterans Memorial on Monday morning and/or while we pause for a moment’s reflection at 3 p.m.

God bless you as you remember our service member who gave it all.