Pause. Reflect. Remember. The celebration of Memorial Day is more than simply a day away from work, a chance to sleep in late, an occasion to play golf, an opportunity to cook on the grill.

It is a special occasion to say thanks and to express our appreciation to the men and women who have died while serving our country, whose sacrifices have ultimately contributed to the freedoms we enjoy, whose memories who hold so dear.

Enjoy the day.

If you plan to flag the American flag, remember to raise it to half-staff from dawn until noon, then full staff after that.

And wherever you are at 2 p.m. local time, stop and recognize the &#8220National Moment of Remembrance” by observing a moment of silence.

Memorial Day, known first as Decoration Day and a tradition that dates back to the Civil War, is a holiday unique to America. Our respect for those we honor keeps it special.