Memorial Day means different things for different people.

For some, it signals the end of a school year. For many others, it signals the beginning of summer.

It’s a big weekend at the lake. It’s family time at the beach.

But let’s not forget what Memorial Day is truly about.

Today, we remember all who have died in service of the United States of America.

Memorial Day has only been an official American holiday since 1971, but it has been observed since the years soon after the Civil War to honor those who died while serving in the U.S. military.

Originally called Decoration Day, some believe that the late-May date of remembrance was chosen since that is a time when flowers are in bloom throughout the country.

Those who died serving in the U.S. military over the years are certainly deserving of flowers, and more.

That’s why we should all give pause on this day to give thanks and remembrance for the many brave souls who gave their life in service to the United State of America.

Whether that means visiting cemeteries or memorials or saying a quiet prayer for meaningful lives lived, there are several ways we can honor those who died in service to America.

Let’s remember that while this holiday does signal the unofficial beginning of summer, its true meaning runs much deeper than that.