May 24, 2026
On the eve of this highly reverential holiday, which I have the greatest respect for, I have to ask, “What do you say on Memorial Day?”
In the last few days, I have received two communications from fellow Vietnam veterans:
One said, “He doesn’t want people to thoughtlessly wish him a ‘Happy Memorial Day.’ He lost friends in combat, and this is a somber day for him to remember them by.”
The other friend wrote, ”Have a good and honorably reflective Memorial Day.”
I thought about the two seemingly opposite reactions, but then appreciated that maybe they are sending the same message.
When I attend Monday morning’s local Memorial Day ceremony, wearing my Vietnam veteran hat, I am curious to listen and take notice of the greetings I hear.
What do you say on Memorial Day?
Robert Kuhn 