Each year, Americans observe Memorial Day on the last Monday in May. Originally known as Decoration Day—from the early tradition of putting flowers, wreaths, and flags on the graves of those lost while fighting in the Civil War—the holiday later became an occasion to honor those who died in all of America’s wars.

This Memorial Day, we continue our nation’s tradition of honoring the courageous men and women who have laid down their lives for our freedoms. Here are ways you can observe Memorial Day.

1. Remember and Participate.

On Memorial Day, most Americans enjoy a day off work, cookouts, time with family, and trips to the beach or pool, but it’s also important to remember our fallen heroes. Remember that they gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Remember the families who, on this day, have an empty place at their table and in their hearts. Remember the brave men and women who are currently serving or have served in our nation’s Military.

Here are ways that you can remember our heroes:

• Pause for a moment of silence at 3 p.m. your local time for the National Moment of Remembrance
• Attend a local parade or ceremony near you
• Decorate or lay flowers at your local Veterans cemetery
• Visit a military memorial, museum, or monument

2. Share God’s Word.

Military trauma is real. Many Service Members and Veterans have experienced physical, emotional, or psychological trauma resulting from their service.

American Bible Society’s Armed Services Ministry created Never Alone, an eLearning course, to provide Scripture-based comfort for Military personnel experiencing trauma. The 7-module program is made up of three parts, each having interactive and helpful content, Scripture reading, and journal exercises. The topics include suffering, being heard, grieving, bringing pain to the cross, forgiving, coming home, and rebuilding and resilience.

You can honor the memory and legacy of our fallen heroes by caring for today’s Service Members and Veterans. Help our nation’s brave heroes connect with the hope and healing found in God’s Word by sharing this free resource.

3. Pray.

Finally, one of the best ways to observe Memorial Day is by praying for Service Members, Veterans, and their families. Here are some ways you can pray.

• Pray that God will strengthen and comfort military communities through his Word.
• Pray that Scripture-based resources and programs will reach military communities to help meet their spiritual needs.
• Pray that God will heal the physical ailments and mend the emotional and spiritual brokenness of Service Members and Veterans.
• Pray that God will grant wisdom and encouragement to chaplains, organizations, and all those providing care to military communities.