TOLEDO, Ohio — With Memorial Day approaching, many will travel, unwind, or enjoy a barbecue during the three-day weekend.
In addition to enjoying some extra time off, many will reflect on the sacrifice service members made for their country.
For Charles Hiser, the Executive Director of the Lucas County Veteran Service Commission, Memorial Day is about more than a celebration and a three-day weekend.
"Memorial Day is a day to recognize and remember those veterans who have served in the military and have passed. Whether it be in wartime or after they're out of the military," said Hiser.
Hiser shared how the community uses this weekend to commemorate the lives of soldiers, airmen, seaman and marines during me Memorial Day celebrations.
"Most people view it more as a, "let's have a barbecue," said Hiser. "We have the weekend off and fireworks. But most towns - small towns or bigger cities - have some Memorial Day parade or remembrance ceremony."
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Hiser said relaxing and celebrating is important; it's a national holiday, after all. But Hiser also encouraged people to consider what it may mean for veterans and family members who lost someone to war or military service.
"Let's remember the veterans that are longer with us," he said. "Not only did they give up years of their lives, some of them also gave their lives to give us the freedom we have as Americans."
According to Heiser, honoring the lives lost of those who served should be considered when celebrating.
"They got wounded over there or killed over there, and they never made it back. So their families, that's what they use Memorial Day for. Also, it's to remember their loved ones that fell overseas or are no longer here," Hiser said.
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