Memorial Day 2020 | We Remember
The Eye Professionals salutes our fallen veterans and their families who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of our country.
We also salute those serving on the front line during this pandemic:
To Our Veterans and Frontline Workers:
Have a meaningful day.
Memorial Day – Did You Know
Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday of the month of May. It is an American holiday and has been celebrated since the Civil War as “Decoration Day.”
In 1971, Memorial Day became a federal holiday.
The origins of Memorial Day are varied, but there are records which indicate that this day of recognition was initiated by a group of freed slaves in Charleston, South Carolina. Federal records designate Waterloo, New York as the official birthplace of the holiday.
A National Moment of Remembrance takes place at 3 PM local time to remember our fallen heroes.
On Memorial Day, we tell our veterans to have a “meaningful day” as we remember lives lost from service to our country. On Veterans Day, we thank those who are serving or who have served in the armed forces.
The holiday has become a symbol of the beginning of summer. Parties, parades, gatherings, barbecues and fireworks are common ways to celebrate.
With most professional fireworks displays canceled due to the pandemic, there is likely to be a surge of “backyard” displays. We urge you exercise extreme caution and take measures to stay safe: remember social distancing and protect yourself and your eyes.
Coronavirus 2020
We are also remembering those lost to the coronavirus pandemic as the United States approaches 100,000 deaths due to the infection.
In the last 12 weeks, more Americans have died during the pandemic than in the Vietnam and Korean Wars (see linked chart) combined and about twice as many as died of battle wounds during World War I.
We pay tribute to our friends and families on the frontline of the pandemic and who serve as essential workers. We thank you for your dedication and bravery while you selflessly protect your fellow citizens and communities.
The Eye Professionals
As all states are taking the first steps towards “reopening,” we remind you that the Eye Professionals remain available to take care of you and your family as we all face our “new normal.”
We hope you have a meaningful Memorial Day and celebrate responsibly…and, more than ever, safely.