Memorial Day- A time to remember, reflect

As usual, many Americans will pause sometime this weekend, perhaps on Monday's official day of observance for Memorial Day, to honor our relatives, friends and neighbors who have worn the uniforms of our nation's military branches and who have died on battlefields around the world.

This year, Memorial Day is tinged by our national experience at the hands of terrorists on Sept. 11. Our emotions and thoughts are being strongly tugged by those deadly events. As a result, many more Americans are likely to participate in some special event or private gathering to honor those who have given their country their ultimate sacrifice.

Despite its origins as a way of honoring those who fought and died in the Civil War, Memorial Day has become a special day of remembering all our loved ones who have died. It is fitting that springtime's beauty enhances the cemeteries where those who are important to us have found their final earthly resting place.

Memorial Day weekend is also the start of summer activities. And it is the weekend when highways are clogged with holiday travelers. Thus, it is a weekend for caution and special attention to safety.