From the Editor's Desk: Make the most out of Memorial Day

Memorial Day is fast approaching, so remember to pay proper respect to the veterans in your life, whether it’s a family member or a friend.

As part of my job, I’ve met a lot of veterans from the branches of the armed forces, whether it is through interviews specifically about their time in the U.S. military or about their lives in general. One thing I have noticed almost universally is that they have been highly involved in the community and devoted to the public good.

For many, their continuing service is to participate in the American Legion or VFW, including making sure fallen soldiers are remembered. Veterans always seem to have a sense of purpose that empowers them to go above and beyond.

I also recently had the pleasure of learning more about the tradition of selling poppies to support veterans and programs. If you can find the time, be sure to buy a poppy to show some pride. After all, the money goes to support disabled and hospitalized veterans and their families. I didn’t know the poignant history behind the poppy, which makes a pretty flower even more significant – to find out a bit more about the poppy, visit shawurl.com/39cz.

Whether it’s attending the parade in St. Charles or Geneva, catching a breakfast fish fry in Batavia outside the VFW before its solemn service, or showing your respect at a more private ceremony, be sure to make the most of your Memorial Day.

Our veterans deserve it.

Zachary Van Vuren is weeklies editor for the Kane County Chronicle, Elburn Herald, Sugar Grove Herald, Kendall County Record and Suburban Life Media. Contact him at zvanvuren@shawmedia.com or 630-845-5368.