Without implying any criticism at all, I wish to make some timely reminders here.
Armed Forces Day (3rd Saturday in May, the 18th year) honors all who are CURRENTLY serving in the Armed Forces of the US, and it is the culminating day of Armed Forces week. (BTW, the word military is an adjective, not a noun. Members do not serve "in the military" but rather "in the Armed Forces" or "in the Armed Services.")
Veteran's Day (11th of November) honors all who HAVE served in the Armed Forces of the US, past and present, living and dead. Its origins are in Armistice Day, commemorating the end of the fighting of WWI.
Memorial Day (Observed on the last Monday of May, the 26th this year; originally always May 30th) honors those who GAVE THEIR LIVES in armed service. Its origins date from Decoration Day closely following the American Civil War, designated as a day to decorate the graves of those who had died fighting for the Union. It was held on May 30th as being the only date on the calendar NOT associated with a significant armed clash during the war; the first official observance (1868) was authorized by Maj Gen John Logan, head of the Grand Army of the Republic, the veteran's organization of the day.
Please remember that these observances are not interchangeable, generic, or merely an excuse for a retail sale and BBQ.
