For decades, Memorial Day has been a time for reflection, remembrance and tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the United States of America.
It’s a day to appreciate our freedom and recognize the men and women who died fighting for that freedom.
Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day was first observed in May 1868 to commemorate lives lost in the Civil War. Following World War I, it became a day to honor those who have died in all of America’s wars. It was declared a national holiday in 1971.
Memorial Day traditions include visiting cemeteries and decorating soldiers’ graves, as well as displaying the American flag.
Scentsy commemorates the day by displaying 100 American flags around the home office campus along Pine Avenue and Eagle Road in Meridian, Idaho. A local Boy Scout troop from Kuna places the flags just before sunrise and removes them at dusk.
There are dozens of military veterans currently working at the Scentsy home office. Some of them took the time to share what the day means to them and how they mark the occasion.
Josh McNitt, Scentsy Environmental Safety & Health Specialist, has served as a combat medic in the Idaho Army National Guard for “18 years and counting,” including two tours in Iraq providing medical support and personal security.
“Memorial Day is a day to honor our fallen service members, whether during a conflict or just in passing. This is a time for celebration of those we have lost, not particularly a day of mourning.”
“I tend to celebrate by talking with fellow service members and visiting the memorials of some of my fallen friends and family.”
Bill Whiteman, Scentsy Middleware Administrator, served a total of 11 years in the U.S. Marine Corps., including combat in Mogadishu, Somalia.
“To me, Memorial Day is time to remember those who gave their lives, so that we might enjoy the freedoms that we so often take for granted.”
“This year I will be taking my 4-year-old boy Chase to the Warhawk Air Museum in Nampa.”
Dan Miller, Scentsy Warehouse Manager, was a member of the U.S. Army Reserves for seven years.
“Memorial Day to me is about honoring the men and women who have served this great country in order to preserve the freedoms we all enjoy. Particularly, those who gave their lives so that we could be free.”
“On Memorial Day, I visit my father’s grave. He served in the Air Force during the Korean War as a medic. I salute him, thank him for his service and for everything he taught me about being a man.”
Kelly Cantrell, Scentsy Business Systems Analyst, retired as a Major in the U.S. Air Force after more than 21 years of service.
“A day of reflection and remembrance for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting the freedom we are privileged to have in the United States.”
“We gather with family and friends and pray for those service members that went before us and gave their lives so we can enjoy the freedoms we have.”
