Memorial Day 2010

It was at the funeral of my dear Aunt Beth several years ago that I learned of the value of older Americans. Of course, having grown up in the 1950’s and early 1960’s, I was taught to show respect toward my elders. Like many childhood lessons back then, rules didn’t come with explanations—other than the commonly heard “because I said so!”

My dad’s cousin came to Michigan for Aunt Beth’s funeral, and I had an opportunity to chat with him for a little while. He had retired many years earlier, but was busier than ever—volunteering with the American Red Cross. He talked about the importance of volunteering, and his words that day were branded upon my memory: “If it weren’t for retired folks, there wouldn't be enough people to work in all the volunteer organizations. Many of the services we take for granted would be shut down.”

There are many ways and opportunities to volunteer our services; we all know about the Red Cross, Salvation Army, United Way, and other mammoth organizations that have widespread media recognition. But there are countless smaller groups that serve our nation and our fellow humans in quieter, less public ways.

Today is Memorial Day. My morning newspaper ran an Associated Press article, by Helen O’Neill, about a group of women who volunteer at Arlington National Cemetery. Since the 1940’s, these women, representing the Navy, Air Force, Army and Coast Guard, have been making sure that no serviceman or woman is alone when they are buried.

The Arlington Ladies

This small “band of volunteers,” primarily the wives of retired military officers, attend every funeral in Arlington Cemetery. They are there daily, even in scorching summer heat and bitter winter cold, ensuring that every soldier, sailor, airman, marine, or guardsman is remembered and honored. They are the “Arlington Ladies.” As in the history of all volunteer organizations, their founder saw a need and filled it. For an inspiring Memorial Day message, please check out the full story.

On this Memorial Day and everyday, thank you to all those who have given their all for the rest of us. And thanks, also, to those who volunteer their time and energy to serve our military family.

Donna

According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, “The Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) National Cemetery Administration maintains 131 national cemeteries in 39 states (and Puerto Rico) as well as 33 soldier’s lots and monument sites.”