Dear UWUA Brothers and Sisters,

This Memorial Day offers the opportunity for solemn reflection and the opportunity in overcoming celebration obstacles. Although COVID 19 has hindered some physical celebrations like parades or large-scale gatherings it still leaves us many ways to remember and honor the fallen and families of the fallen. The COVID virus has taken many American lives and caused great suffering of our family and friends.

This year let’s use some of the military traditions to honor those also that have lost their battle with the virus. Memorial Day is not just a three-day weekend, an unofficial start to summer, or an excuse to barbecue, Memorial Day is a chance to honor all those who sacrificed their lives while serving our nation. We can and should incorporate by extending remembrance of those we lost to COVID 19 into our thoughts and prayers.

The National Moment of Remembrance is schedule for 3 p.m. local time each Memorial Day, and presents a chance for all Americans, alone or with family and friends, to commemorate the fallen by pausing for a minute to remember all those that so humbly gave their lives for the betterment of our nation and the families and generations whom were affected.

There are many ways to celebrate on Memorial Day and throughout the Memorial Day weekend to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country; although we cannot attend a local parade or memorial service, we can don patriotic gear, or fly your American flag at half-staff. Visits a cemetery and leave a small stone telling that military member you where there and thank them for their ultimate sacrifice.

However, you choose to spend Memorial Day and Memorial Day weekend, I encourage everyone to reflect on the freedoms and liberties you enjoy every day and give thanks to those who sacrificed their lives to protect them. And call special attention to those UWUA Soldiers Sailors, Marines, and Airmen who have given the ultimate sacrifice throughout our Union and Nations history. Please also remember all our UWUA first responders, and essential workers who put themselves in harms way during this pandemic, many of whom have lost their life’s by serving others. God Bless them and Keep them all. Have a safe and rewarding Memorial Day weekend.

Sincerely,
Rick Passarelli
UWUA Director of Veterans Affairs
And workforce development