Today is Memorial Day in the United States. Decoration Day, as it was formerly called, is a day when we pause to remember those whose lives were taken in service to the United State of America. Today you may be taking the camper and boat out for the first time this season; fencing, because it’s time for the cows and calves to get out of the calving area; planting (your field or garden) or maybe taking a much needed break if we received the rains that were predicted; or maybe today you’re simply remembering a loved one that’s no longer with you. In one way or another, each of us is affected by this day. Memorial Day services will be held all around the state. Some will be attended by over 200 people and some will have 20 in the crowd. No matter the size, the significance is the same. So between the hot dogs, fence clips, and seeds I urge you to take a couple minutes to remember why we celebrate this national holiday. Listen to the veteran tell the story about their friend who “never made it back” and be grateful for the opportunities we are granted.

More information about the history of Memorial Day can be found here: http://www.usmemorialday.org/.

Mary Berg
mary.berg@ndsu.edu
Extension Specialist