Memorial Day – Skip Jennings

Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.

As someone who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces, I was an airman in the U.S. Air Force, I want to meditate this week on one of the most sacred ritual of the military on this Memorial Day. The guarding of the Tomb of the Unknowns at the Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington D.C. This video from PBS captures the beautiful ceremony in all its splendid movements of this unique and elaborate ritual known as the “Changing of the Guard”..

Sentinels pace back and forth in front of the Tomb, taking 21 steps north and south, and standing for periods of 21 seconds at either side — 21 symbolizing the military’s “highest honor” of the 21-gun salute. While on duty, the soldiers do not wear rank insignia, as to not outrank the Unknowns. The guards are relieved at the top of every hour, except during visitor hours in the summer months, when the guard is changed on the half hour.

Peace,

-SKip

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We end this week with the beginning of Memorial Day Weekend. For many it’s the official start of summer with the pools, trips, bbq’s and fun. Memorial Day was once called Decoration Day for the placing of flowers on fallen soldier’s grave after the Civil War. The practice of decorating soldiers’ graves with flowers is an ancient custom. Many towns throughout the country still celebrate it like this. Traditionally celebrated on May 30th, Memorial Day officially moved to the 4th Monday in May in 1967.

I would like to wish you all a terrific Memorial Day and start of summer, please drive safely where ever your journey takes you to family or friends. I also ask you as your Friday affirmation to send a prayer to those Veterans who have lost there lives in the service to our country.

Peace and Blessings,

-Skip

This Week’s Meditative Thought – Known But To God

Friday Affirmation – Remembering Memorial Day