It's the weekend in our state and across the country. Some schools are out and that means more time with the kids and finding fun things to do. Hopefully, without breaking the budget. AAA reports that a record number of people will be traveling between now and Tuesday.

If you're a consumer of media, you'll be bombarded by ads touting sales and other fun things to do. However, Monday is a day that we should all honor those who gave it all so we can enjoy this wonderful weekend.

Memorial Day's Purpose
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While for some, Memorial Day may symbolize the start of summer or a time for shopping, it holds a much deeper meaning. It's a day when America comes together to honor those who've made the ultimate sacrifice for our liberty, a stark contrast to the commercialization that often surrounds it.

We are truly blessed to live in a country where less than one percent of the population bears the weight of our freedom. Most Americans, despite their best intentions, cannot meet the rigorous standards to join today's military. It's a privilege we often take for granted, one that wasn't always so exclusive in our country, as many men had no choice but to join the military due to the draft.

5 Things That You Don't Want To Do On Memorial Day

What to do and not to do on this historic holiday

Gallery Credit: Kevin Miller

Even though the government eliminated the draft in 1973, it's crucial that every male in America registers with selective service. This is not just a formality, but a responsibility we all share in case the need for national defense arises. Today, the world is on fire in Ukraine, Israel, and possibly Taiwan. America may be at peace, but we must be prepared.  

How To Celebrate Memorial Day
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Some folks confuse Memorial Day with Veteran's Day. Monday is a day to honor those who fought the greatest threats to our nation and the free world. Americans who died chose to put our freedom ahead of their personal lives. 

Please take the opportunity to say a prayer to those unknown heroes who never had the chance to get married, have kids, have grandkids, graduate high school or college, or experience other passages of life. Why not attend a ceremony at a Veteran's Cemetery or one of the different ceremonies in your area? 

God Bless and Never Forget! 

50 Stunning Photos of America Honoring Memorial Day Through The Years

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.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

21 Great Memorial Day Songs

Of course the best Memorial Day songs come from country music greats. Check out the Top 20 songs that honor fallen soldiers, including well-known hits by Toby Keith, Billy Ray Cyrus, the Statler Brothers and more.

Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes

50 Stunning Photos of America Honoring Memorial Day Through The Years

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.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

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