Meaningful Ways to Spend Memorial Day 2016 in Aurora, CO

Memorial Day is much more than a just a three-day weekend. A national tradition that dates back to 1868, Memorial Day is a day to give thanks to the brave men and women who gave their lives defending our freedom. Instead of spending Memorial Day 2016 lazing by a pool, dedicate the day to honoring our fallen heroes by doing something meaningful in their memory.

There are numerous ways to spend Memorial Day in Aurora, Colorado and here are just a few of them.

Pay Your Respect at the Colorado Freedom Memorial

The Colorado Freedom Memorial was dedicated three years ago on Memorial Day in 2013. The names of nearly 6,000 Coloradans who served and lost their lives in our military are etched on the glass of this spectacular monument. The Colorado Freedom Memorial is the only memorial in the country dedicated to troops who served in every branch of the military and is a wonderful way to show children the sacrifice soldiers made for our freedom.

Assist with Operation Gratitude

Operation Gratitude sends care packages and personal letters to troops serving abroad. This terrific charity is always looking for people to get involved. Why not become an Operation Gratitude Ambassador in your community? As a community ambassador, host a Memorial Day themed barbeque and encourage your guests to help with some of Operation Gratitude’s most urgent needs; writing letters to the troopsdonating care package items, or even making paracord survival bracelets. Take a few hours out of Memorial Day 2016 to assist with these efforts and ultimately put a smile on the face of someone serving the United States.

Volunteer for Veterans

In memory of those who served but did not return from battle, help those that did by volunteering your time on Memorial Day at a homeless shelter that serves veterans. Call ahead to inquire what help is needed as well as to see if any donations are needed. Maybe spend a day before hand gathering needed donation items from friends, family members, and neighbors.

Become a Battalion Buddy

The Battalion Buddy program is intended to support the children of deployed service men and women. While it might be challenging for kids to understand why their parent is gone, becoming a Battalion Buddy to one of these young people means demonstrating the value of their mom’s or dad’s sacrifice.

Don’t forget to show your respect for those who have fallen by tying a yellow ribbon around a tree in your front lawn for Memorial Day.