Teachers – The poem “In Flanders Fields” provides a wonderful opportunity for discussing the symbolism of the poppy on Memorial Day. This link provides a starting point for highlighting the history of this holiday in your classroom.

 http://www.teachervision.fen.com/literature/poetry/lesson-plan/3244.html?detoured=1

Memorial Day began as an event to honor Union soldiers who had died during the American Civil War.  It was inspired by the people in the Southern states honored their dead.  After WWI, it was extended to include all men and women who died in any war or military action.

 Originally known as Decoration Day, the current name for this day did not come into use until after WWII.  The Memorial Day holiday is officially observed on the last Monday in May.

How will you choose to spend Monday, May 27 – Memorial Day?

How do you plan to spend the day?  Check your area for Armed Service celebrations.

Teachers – Use Armed Forces Week as an opportunity to educate your students on the role and importance of our country’s military. The U.S. Department of Education has compiled a list of military history websites where you can access lesson plans and primary sources to be used in your classroom.

http://www.teachinghistory.org/history-content/national-resources/19187

Joe Foss Institute Veteran Presenter, Jack Nemerov has always been a very patriotic American. In fact, Jack joined the United States Army on December 8th, 1941 to serve our country. Jack was part of the first wave of soldiers to arrive at Omaha Beach on D-Day on June 6th, 1944. We appreciate the service of Mr. Nemerov and the rest of America’s Greatest Generation who helped our country during difficult times.

If you would like Jack or one of our other Veteran Presenters to share his story and the JFI program with your class or community organization, please contact us by clicking on the “Schedule a Veteran Speaker” tab.