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Memorial Day

May 27, 2023

Memorial Day is that one day, in three hundred and sixty- five days, we pause and honor those who died in the military service of our country. 

The practice of decorating the graves of fallen soldiers originated 1868 to honor those who died in the Civil War. In 1971 Memorial Day became a national holiday. Whereas Veteran’s Day, celebrated on the 11th of November, honors all those who served or are serving in any branch of the military. Memorial Day honors veterans who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Those who gave their life.

Their numbers are great, and we should always remember our deadliest war was the Civil War, when we fought each other, with greater causalities even than WW II.

Revolutionary War – 4,435

War of 1812 – 2,260

Indian Wars – 1,000

Mexican War – 13,283

Civil War – 498,332

Spanish American War – 2,446

WW I – 116,516

WW II – 405,399

Korean – 54,246

Vietnam – 90,220

Persian Gulf War – 1,565

Global War on Terror – 6,852

Total number of Americans killed in all U. S. wars is more than 1.1 million

Source Department of Defense and of Veterans Affairs

On May 30, 2022 many Americans will gather, fire up the grill, and have the first picnic of the summer season. Hopefully they will also recall why we have this day free from work. They will take a moment to acknowledge the sacrifice of human life that has provided and secured our freedoms. In addition to the hot dogs, burgers, and beer, perhaps take in a Memorial Day parade? Go to the cemetery and teach your kids and grandkids what those flags on graves mean. 

Another beautiful way to honor our war dead occurs everywhere in the United States of America. It’s easy to participate. At 3 p.m. your local time take part in the national moment of remembrance … Taps Across America . If you play a musical instrument step outside and play taps, if you don’t play turn up your smart speaker as loud as it will go and ask it to play taps. Be still and listen. See if another within your earshot is showing their appreciation for those who gave their life to get us where we are today and to keep us a great and free democracy.

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Since 1875, The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory has been providing world-class care to the families of northeastern Ohio. Family-owned and operated, Billow’s has two full-service facilities in Fairlawn and Cuyahoga Falls as well as a privately owned crematory. The team at Billow’s is passionate about providing unmatched care for both families and their loved ones. For more information, visit billowfuneralhomes.com.

What Are Burial Vaults and Grave Liners and Why Do I Have to Buy Them?

February 4, 2025
When saying goodbye to someone you love, you have a multitude of decisions to make. Some you might be prepared for, while other questions are new to you. One topic that many people are unfamiliar with is the concept of burial vaults and grave liners, which you may have to have in your loved one’s final resting place.

Food and Funerals: The Comfort of Sharing a Meal

February 4, 2025
Food not only nourishes the body but also comforts the soul, making it a significant part of funeral traditions. Offering food signifies care and supports the healing journey during such tough times.

Understanding Funeral Costs: A Guide to Planning with Care

January 8, 2025
When the time comes to think about funeral arrangements, one of the first questions many of us have is, "How much will it cost?" It’s natural to look for a straightforward answer during such an emotionally charged time. However, much like finding the perfect car, the cost of a funeral varies widely depending on personal choices and specific needs.

What Is the Purpose of Embalming?

January 8, 2025
Embalming can be a controversial topic. Some people are opposed to it, whether due to personal or religious reasons, but for others, embalming is an important part of starting their grief journey and getting a chance to say goodbye to the person they love.

Dressing for a Funeral: Comfort, Respect, and What to Wear

January 8, 2025
Attending a funeral is one of those things that makes everyone pause, not just because of the emotional weight, but also the big question: "What do I wear?" Let’s discuss.

Embracing Family in Funeral Planning

January 8, 2025
When it comes time to say goodbye to a loved one, the focus of the funeral often naturally falls on the family. It's the people who loved and knew the deceased best—spouses, children, grandchildren, friends, and even coworkers—who come together to remember and honor their life.

When Someone Dies, Someone Else Feels Lonely

December 3, 2024
The loneliness that accompanies the death of someone we care about is complex and individual. For those who, for many years, woke every morning alongside a husband or wife, it is strange to open your eyes and realize you’re alone. In the early days of grief, the void that is left when a life partner dies can feel like a black hole with no way out.

I’m Lonely: When is Too Soon to Start Dating?

November 12, 2024
The answer to this question depends on who you ask. Queen Victoria famously mourned Prince Albert by wearing black for the remainder of her life, forty years. The fictional character Scarlet O’Hara in the novel Gone With the Wind scandalized her peers by dancing with a bachelor at a charity event while “still in black.”

After the Death of a Spouse: 10 Things to Do BEFORE You Start Dating

November 12, 2024
Slow down and commit to investing some time in getting ready to date. A little preparation work will help you protect your safety, have a more pleasurable dating experience, and possibly avoid heartbreak.

Make Sure the Tough Days Are Covered

November 12, 2024
Supporting a friend who is grieving requires staying power. In the first few weeks and days following the funeral, our thoughts are full of our friend. But often, as the weeks become months, our friend’s need is less acute, and our own routine calls us. We forget.
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