AMB_Memorial Day_Canva

Memorial Day is right around the corner, and while this holiday may conjure dreams of a poolside BBQ and the unofficial kick-off to summer, it is also a wonderful opportunity for families to take some time to honor veterans, troops and their families. I’m the child of an educator and my mother’s love for history rubbed off on me. She never hesitated to make everyday activities learning moments. You can use this time to teach your kids about the origins of Memorial Day and explain why they have the day off of school. 🙂

Once they understand the holiday, here are 5 ways to celebrate in and around Austin:

  • The Texas Military Museum at Camp Mabry is perfect for the family to learn about Texas’ contributions to all branches of the United States Military. Plus your kiddos can get up close and personal with all those big tanks, trucks, and planes! The museum is free, but always accepts donations. While closed on Memorial Day, the museum will have a special program on Saturday, May 23rd and Sunday, May 24th. The program:“features members of the Texas Military Forces Living History Detachment exhibiting the uniform and equipment worn by the American GI in the European Theater of the Second World War, as well as those of his German opponent. In addition, the two-day event will provide guests the opportunity to witness firing demonstrations of the most famous U.S. and German small arms of World War II, as well as see everything from tents and radio equipment to GI baseball gloves and mess kits and operational vehicles such as an M4 Sherman Tank, M3 Halftrack and Jeeps.”
  • Pay your respects to those who gave their lives in service to our country at the Texas State Cemetery. The grounds are open to the public, and if you make reservations, you can take a guided Texas History tour of the grounds.
  • Participate in the 2015 Carry the Load Memorial Day March on Sunday, May 24th.  This 20.15 mile march (don’t worry, you can do just 1 mile, the entire march, or cheer on the participants and hand out water!) takes place at Reveille Park Ranch. The family friendly march honors those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country and the funds raised are donated to multiple non-profit partners.
  • Don’t want to miss out on the traditional BBQ fun of Memorial Day? Host a BBQ for the Troops! Invite friends, family, and neighbors to a backyard BBQ. Instead of having your guests bring a bottle of wine, or other hostess gift, ask them to donate items to a care package collection for our troops. More information about how you can set up your own collection drive can be found at Operation Gratitude.
  • Create a care package from your family to a currently deployed Soldier, Airman, Sailor, Marine, or Coastguardsman. AnySoldier makes it easy with lists of popular items and instructions on how to ship your package. Get the kids involved in shopping for the items and packaging up the box! Break out the construction paper, glitter and glue for some homemade cards to accompany the goodies.

So dress in your red, white, and blues, hang the flag, say thank you to a veteran, and above all enjoy the freedoms we have been so richly blessed with! Happy Memorial Day!

 

 

 

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here