Burial of a fallen hero. Iwo Jima, Feb. 19, 1945.

By Steve Pylant

Editor’s Note: This item was submitted by Steve Pylant, Leesburg.

Memorial Day is a special and unique day. Its purpose should not be confused with other days set aside to honor current or former U.S. military service members.

Armed Forces Day is the third Saturday in May. It was established to honor all current U.S. military service members.

Veterans Day is Nov. 11. It was established to honor all veterans who served in the U.S. military and were discharged.

Memorial Day is the last Monday in May. It was established to honor U.S. military service members who made the ultimate sacrifice during military service to our country.

Any day is an appropriate day to thank a veteran or current U.S. military member for their service, but Memorial Day is different.

On Memorial Day, recognize and honor those who didn’t come home alive by flying the U.S. flag at half-staff from sunrise to noon, or say a prayer for them and their sacrifice.

Remember them by calling out their names at local commemorative services and teaching your children the true meaning of Memorial Day.

Doing these things will help keep Memorial Day about those who gave their life during military service to our country. And should someone thank you for your service, politely remind them who this day honors. They earned it, and it’s the least we can do.