Memorial Day is just a few days away and many are thinking of summer. In fact I would suggest that the "unofficial” start to summer occurs this weekend almost a full month before the official start to summer or the summer solstice. This weekend also begins the summer vacation period for many as kids migrate home from college to enjoy summer breaks and perhaps a family vacation.

Tradition also has a lot to do with how we see this “unofficial” start to summer and how we define the Season. For many Memorial Day weekend is a time of family get-togethers cookouts parades and outdoor activities. Some may also see it as a time for the beginning of summer-like temperatures baseball games or even the Indy 500. But for thousands if not millions this holiday weekend will be about the observance and honoring of U.S. men and women who died while in military service.

Traditions seem to hold a special meaning for Veterans and their families as many will observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries to place American flags and wreaths on veteran’s gravesite. In fact the national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day. Another tradition is to fly the flag of the United States at half-staff from dawn until noon local time.

A tradition that many may see over the next few days is members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars taking donations for those cute red poppies. What you may not know is that the poppy's significance to Memorial Day is the result of the John McCrae poem "In Flanders Fields."

When you enjoy the weekend no matter how you choose to celebrate take a little time away from the fun festivities brats burgers and remember those who have fallen those who are no longer with us those whose families feel the pain of their absence – say thank you.

When you see the flags that wave in the breeze or stand in silent homage at cemeteries to remind us of the citizens who have answered the call endured much and fallen in distant lands and closer backyards whom without their sacrifice our nation would be a far different land – say thank you.

Happy Memorial Day and have a safe and enjoyable “unofficial” start to summer.