With Memorial Day upon us, we all need to take a moment and reflect.

As a Baby Boomer, I’m fortunate to have been born from parents of “The Greatest Generation.” For those unknowing, the Greatest Generation is a term used for Americans born from about 1911 to 1924. Americans who lived through the Great Depression, served in World War II and some the Korean War, and rebuilt the world’s industries.

Since my father served in World War II and received the Purple Heart (he lost an eye during the Normandy invasion), I have always had a great understanding of Memorial Day. Like many WW II Veterans, my father would never speak about the war, his injuries, or loss of comrades. However, as a child, I leaned of his experiences from a family member. While my Dad was never pleased that I gained this personal information, I will always be grateful to my Uncle for sharing what he knew about my father with me. You see, my Dad was a true hero – and knowing of his experiences helped shape my life and gave me an ever greater appreciation and love of him, as I grew from a child to a man.

So come Memorial Day, I always take time to reflect on its meaning. However, since the National Holiday Act of 1971, I fear most think of it as just another 3-day weekend. Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, is supposed to be a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service. Unfortunately, over time, I fear its tradition has been ignored and neglected.

With most of the Greatest Generation deceased, it’s our generation’s responsibility to keep the true meaning of America’s greatest holiday alive. Maybe we should begin by pushing for recognition of a Senator Daniel Inouye bill. On January 19, 1999 Senator Inouye introduced bill S 189 to the Senate which proposes to restore the traditional day of observance of Memorial Day back to May 30th instead of “the last Monday in May” – and not allow it as part of the Holiday Act and a 3-day weekend. By the way, Senator Inouye is not only a member of the Greatest Generation, but also the recipient of America’s highest military accolade – the Medal of Honor.

If nothing else, let’s start by recognizing the resolution, “National Moment of Remembrance,” passed in December 2000. In short, the resolution asks that at 3pm on Memorial Day, we voluntarily observe (in our own way) a Moment of remembrance and respect.

Thanks Dad.