Memorial Day 2011 - National Moment of Remembrance

Observe Memorial Day by taking part in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 PM.

Who: All Americans

What: The National Moment of Remembrance

When: Monday, May 30, 2011, 3 p.m. local time

Where: Wherever you are

Why: There are too many Americans who do not have a sense of our history or understanding of our proud heritage and all those who gave their lives to protect our precious freedoms. That is why we must continue to remind them of those whom they must remember – and why.

How: Stop for a moment and observe the “Moment” in your own way. It can be a simple gesture such as, placing your hand over your heart, bowing your head, or offering a prayer, and making the following promise: “I promise to make myself, my community, my country, and the world better in memory of America’s fallen.” It puts your remembrance into action.

Background: In 1996, Carmella LaSpada, founder of the organization No Greater Love, met a group of school children touring Washington, D.C. She asked them what Memorial Day meant to them and they responded, “that’s the day the pools open.” This unknowing response made her determined that those who died for our country and our freedom should never be forgotten and lead to the creation of the National Moment of Remembrance.

A Gallop Poll revealed that only 28% of Americans knew the true meaning of Memorial Day. In 2000, No Greater Love asked Congress to officially establish the National Moment of Remembrance.

We must ensure that the sacrifices of the dead of all our wars, and conflicts, and the thousands of those who have died from emotional wounds and training accidents are acknowledged.