'war'

We often miss the mark over Memorial Day Weekend by not remembering why we celebrate and hold special services during this weekend.  A day for honoring Americans who lost their lives while protecting our country started just after the Civil War.  A time when our country needed great healing.  

Gathering together has often given us the strength and hope needed to continue forward and thrive.  For now, our big celebrations are put on hold.  Staying home more may give us the time to read or watch a movie about some of these soldiers.  We can take the time to think about the effort put forward to keep our lives and families safe.

The East Grand Forks Campbell Library has a wonderful Military History Section named after a dedicated civil servant and vet, Henry Tweten.  He is one of the many who can relate to stories told about World War II and share his with others.  With fewer places to gather, we can still hear or read some of these great stories in the safety of our own homes.

Some of my suggestions from our great Military History Section are:

Hymns of the Republic:  the story of the final year of the American Civil War by S.C. Gwynne

The American Expeditionary Forces in the Great War by Maartin Otte

Or perhaps, this is the time to watch a DVD from our Military History Section.  Such as, Great Battles of World War II or The History Channel Ultimate Collections.

We also have many Junior reads about our military history.  I particularly enjoyed, I Survived the Battle of D-Day, 1944 and I Survived the American Revolution, 1776 both by Lauren Tarshis.   

These materials can inspire questions for grandparents or help a family remember a story that has never been shared before.  

Take a little time this Memorial Day to think about the many brave and hardworking Americans that have kept us safe in our past and keep us safe today.