In the next few weeks, the entire country will spend time honoring the servicemen and women of the United States. Some of the major holidays coming up include Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day. This year, Armed Forces Day occurs on April 17 and Memorial Day on May 25. While this year has been a challenge for most, it doesn’t mean that you should skip your celebrations. In fact, with schools experiencing soft closure through the rest of the school year, you will have time to celebrate servicemen and women appropriately.
Let’s take a closer look at the history of Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day, as well as how you can make this year’s festivities special.
History of Armed Forces Day
Every year on the third Saturday of April, the country honors servicemen and women during Armed Forces Day. This national holiday first started in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman. On this day, Americans celebrate every section of the military, including the Navy, Army, Marine Corps, and Air Force.
History of Memorial Day
Memorial Day is an official United States public holiday that commemorates all the men and women who died during military service. Many Americans also use the day to remember loved ones who served the country, as well, although Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor all who served.
Ultimately, the purpose of the holiday is to memorialize the veterans who sacrificed for their country. Whoever you choose to celebrate on Memorial Day, make sure you take the opportunity to show your appreciation.
Ideas for Celebrating Servicemen and Women Appropriately in 2020
2020 is full of surprises, which is why you should make this year’s celebration extra special. Here’s how you can celebrate the servicemen and women in your life no matter where you are.
Make Them a Personalized Gift
Servicemen and women currently serving or those who once served deserve special recognition. Help them treasure their time by gifting them with custom memorabilia. Our display boxes and frames are the perfect way to honor, remember, and thank them for their service. Fortunately, with the help of the McGee’s team, you can put together a custom display in no time. Here is how it works:
- Collect a series of pictures, patches, badges, plaques, ribbons, or flags.
- Contact the McGee’s Store or visit one of our Utah locations.
- Discuss with our experts some of your ideas for your custom design, using the items you want to be displayed.
- Your custom memorabilia will be ready within a short period.
Bake Them a Treat
You can also honor and recognize servicemen and women by treating them with a special treat. Whether it is cookies, brownies, or their favorite sugary snack, any recognition will make them smile. You can drop the gift off on their doorstep with or without a note. This small token of appreciation will make them understand your gratitude for their service.
Send Them a Note
If the serviceman or woman in your life lives far away, send them a card or letter thanking them for their service. You can also sponsor a care package using programs like Operation USO Care Package or Operation Troop Aid if you wish to send a package to random servicemen and women. You can also send a letter using the help of the A Million Thanks Organization.
Share a Post on Social Media
Another wonderful way you can make this year’s celebration special is by highlighting your servicemen and women’s online. Make a post merely thanking them or by sharing their story after getting their permission. These efforts will share the good message of military service far and wide.
Serve Their Family
When a serviceman or woman serves, their decision impacts their entire family. Whether they are married, have children, or are single, any family member feels the impact of their commitment. For loved ones of service members, the decision to put on the uniform is filled with pride and fear.
Honoring the families of those who serve by serving them is especially important. You can do this by getting to know what these family members need, gifting them with special events, gifts, or any type of recognition.
Recognizing Military Service with McGee’s Stamp and Trophy
Military service is worth remembering. Let’s make this year’s recognition efforts unique. Contact the McGee’s to get started on your custom display and military memorabilia.