More than a long weekend: Local veteran reflects on Memorial Day

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — While many Americans spend Memorial Day weekend traveling, grilling or gathering with family, local veterans say the holiday carries a far deeper meaning rooted in remembrance and sacrifice.

Memorial Day traces its origins back to the years following the Civil War, when communities gathered to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. The holiday was originally known as “Decoration Day” before later becoming Memorial Day.

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the tradition was formalized in 1868 as a national day to honor those killed while serving in the military. Over time, the observance expanded to recognize Americans who died in all U.S. wars.

Local Army veteran Robert Friedrich said Memorial Day remains a time for reflection and honoring those who never returned home.

“Memorial Day, what it means to me is it’s a day to reflect or remember those men and women who have fallen in defense of this country,” Friedrich said. “Even those who served in 911… it’s a day to remember everybody who’s fallen in defense and for this country.”

Friedrich said the holiday also reminds him of friends he lost during his lifetime, including service members killed during the war in Iraq.

“I had a good friend, Brad Skelton, who was killed in Iraq,” Friedrich said. “I think of him quite often and even have his name on my Jeep.”

The Department of Veterans Affairs says Memorial Day traditions have continued for more than 150 years through ceremonies, cemetery visits and displays honoring fallen service members across the country.

Friedrich said even small acts of remembrance help preserve the true meaning behind the holiday.

“It’s important to remember our heritage and history and the men and women who have fought and fallen for this country,” Friedrich said.

While many families will still spend the weekend enjoying cookouts and time together, Friedrich said he hopes Americans take time to reflect on the sacrifices made by military members throughout history.

“If you want to have a barbecue or go to the lake, just don’t forget what Memorial Day stands for,” Friedrich said. “It’s not about Memorial Day sales and getting your mattresses 50% off. It really kind of makes me sick to my stomach, people who are advertising off of Memorial Day, when it should be a day just to remember our fallen.”