Memorial Day became a federal holiday in 1971. Here is a look at how Americans have celebrated through the years while also honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
My old man died from cardiac arrest on President's Day of 2023 at St. Luke's Magic Valley. He's been on my mind a lot lately, and although he didn't die while on active duty, I'm still going to honor his contribution to our country all weekend long.
The afternoon also aims at raising awareness of the sad reality of veteran suicide, which claimed more than 500 lives in 2018 and continues to happen at a high rate in the country, according to a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs annual suicide prevention report.