There's a couple of things I'd like everyone to read today.
Memorial Day is the evolution of "Decoration Day", which was set aside to honor the Union troops that died in the Civil War. Over time it was combined with the Confederate Memorial Day, and Women's Memorial Day and expanded to honor all Americans who died in service to their country. Congress intentionally moved this combined holiday to the last Monday in May for the express purpose of making it a three day weekend. If you didn't know that, now you do.
The things I'd like to point out here that might rustle some feathers are:
1) It's never the wrong time to thank a veteran or service member for their sacrifices. They put their boots on every single holiday from Easter to Ramadan, so no holiday is the wrong time to show some appreciation.
2) Saying "Happy Memorial Day" is offensive the same way saying "Merry Christmas" is to a group of hassidic Jews, it belays ignorance. That said, I hope all of you find some happiness today. Four times I went, four times I came home. Had I not, it would be my wish that on this day you honored me with family, friends, food and fun. That's why we fight, and that's why they died, for the American way of life. I'm going to honor them by doing the things they would if they'd made it home!
3) Last, not every battlefield casualty happens on the battlefield. The most recent study has found that 22 veterans take their own life each day. 1-2 of those are post 9/11 veterans. Korea, Vietnam and the first gulf war are still claiming victims.
So celebrate this day as you see fit, all I ask, with no authority to sway you one way or the other, is teach your children why this day exists. Hopefully a day will come when nobody is old enough to remember loosing a loved one to war. Until that day, lets help the next generation understand the real cost in hopes they never find out first hand.