Why we remember

I hesitate somewhat to even mention this, but it has nagged at my mind too long this holiday weekend to not opine:
Memorial Day is for the commemoration of the American men and women who died in the military service, including U.S. casualties of any military action.
We pause on this day to honor their service to this nation.
And while it's a shame that it is no longer observed on each May 30 (as it originally was intended), it is a brilliant reminder each year — as much of modern American life becomes further and further removed from the notions of self-sacrifice and service of one's country — that some paid the ultimate price for this nation, its security and its interests.
While it is more than worthy to pay tribute to our living veterans, this is not their day. They are joining those of us outside of the service in remembering their fallen brothers and sisters.
While it is certainly important to remember the tragedy of the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks, this day was not meant as a catchall observation of all lives lost.
Far be it for me to suggest anyone taking the time to do either of these things on the last Monday in May is doing so incorrectly, but I think it's worth a reminder that today means something very specific, and as the son of one veteran and grandson to two others, it should not be overlooked.