Fun in the sun. Backyard barbecues. An extra day off work.

This is what many people think of when they plan for the three-day Memorial Day weekend holiday. And there is plenty to do here on Orcas: the pet parade, the annual Bite of Orcas, the Orcas Island Education Foundation’s “Food for Thought” benefit.

While we encourage you to take advantage of the many community offerings this weekend, we’d like to point out the real reason we celebrate this holiday: veterans.

Memorial Day is an occasion to pay tribute to the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials and place an American flag on gravesites.

Formerly known as Decoration Day, the holiday originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died. By the 20th Century, Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died in wars.

This coming holiday weekend marks the launch of the summer season. Lather on the sunscreen and lick an ice cream cone while strolling through the farmers’ market. But also take a moment to appreciate those who have fought in our honor and now rest silently beneath the ground.