American Valor Quarterly Issue 3 - Summer 2008 | Page 6

As previously mentioned, the National Memorial Day Parade was
televised to homes and military bases worldwide on the Pentagon
Channel. Not only did this allow for millions of Americans to
share in the parade festivities, it also helped to further spotlight
the tremendous stories of the parade participants and bring focus
to the meaning and importance of the holiday.
Pictured left, American Veterans Center President James C. Roberts is interviewed by the host of the parade broadcast Paul
McKellips. Clips of the parade telecast can be seen on the parade’s
website at www.nationalmemorialdayparade.com.

“Thank you for your service” is something that we
should all be sure to tell a veteran on days like Memorial Day and Veterans Day. The National Memorial Day
Parade is a chance for hundreds of thousands of patriotic Americans to gather to do just that.
Sometimes, just a simple handshake is all that is necessary to let a veteran know how grateful we are for
what they have done for us.

The National Memorial Day Parade is a marching timeline of
American military history. From fife and drum corps and reenactors of soldiers from the American Revolution and Civil
War to the veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam to the
active duty service members of today, the parade seeks to honor
those who served in all eras of American military history.

Of course, amid the celebrations, we should never forget the
true meaning of Memorial Day - remembering those who have
fallen in service to our country. This is their day, and we should
remember to pause and reflect on their sacrifice.
At exactly 3:00 PM, the parade paused to observe the National
Moment of Remembrance (right). The 250,000 spectators were
asked to remain silent, as taps was played and bells were rung
in honor of the fallen. After a few minutes of silence, the parade resumed.

AMERICAN VALOR QUARTERLY - Summer 2008 - 6