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Honoring the Spirit of Memorial Day

June 2, 2010

Over Memorial Day weekend, millions of Americans plan barbecues, go on road trips and hold family functions. While the long weekend is a good time for rest and relaxation, it is important that we do not forget the true significance of this holiday.
Originally enacted to honor the soldiers who died in the Civil War, Memorial Day has since been expanded to commemorate all U.S. men and women who have died in military service. The sacrifices made by these men and women should be recognized, along with the hardships endured by our friends, family members and neighbors currently deployed overseas, and their loved ones.
There are many ways to show your appreciation for our nation's service members and honor the spirit of the holiday, whether it is writing letters to injured soldiers in the hospital, sending care packages to troops overseas, or volunteering in our community.
Not sure where to start? The U.S. government has many resources available on how you can help:
No matter how much time we have, or on what scale we can show our appreciation, Memorial Day is a time to give thanks to veterans, current members in uniform and their families.
As always, please continue to keep me informed about your opinions and concerns by phone at (202) 225-4306 or by visiting my website at www.childers.house.gov.

Congressman Travis W. Childers
First District, Mississippi

Casework Corner

Recently, the son of a Korean War veteran in the First District contacted my office. The veteran had recently filed a VA pension claim to help with his assisted living needs. The son had sent in all of the necessary forms for his father’s application in January 2010, but several months later, there was still no reply from the VA.
After hearing from the son, Orlando Ivy, a veteran’s caseworker in my Tupelo office, immediately began working on the father’s case. Orlando made several phone calls to the VA and wrote a letter to the pension center. Within two weeks, pension funds were deposited into the father’s account.
Because of Orlando’s hard work, a Mississippi veteran will be able to receive the assisted living care he so bravely earned serving our country.