As Memorial Day draws near, the weekend plans for barbecues and family get-togethers are taking shape.

It is easy to take the much-needed day off and relax for change without a care in the world, but it’s important to remember why we celebrate Memorial Day in the first place.

Although the holiday known as Decoration Day began shortly after the Civil War to honor fallen Union and Confederate soldiers, it wasn’t until 1971 that Memorial Day was declared a national holiday, and the meaning was expanded to include fallen U.S. soldiers from all American wars.

The last Monday in May is special, not just for families who are closely connected to the military, but for all Americans.

Though we all might not be involved with the armed forces or have a veteran in our families, we owe it to those who served in our place to honor them in some way on Memorial Day.

One simple and easy way to take an active part in Memorial Day is to pause wherever we may be at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day for the National Moment of Remembrance.

This is a time to reflect on the sacrifices so many Americans have made to ensure our safety and freedoms that sometimes get taken for granted.

Selma will be hosting a full program at 2:30 p.m. on Memorial Day leading up to the Moment of Remembrance.

Whether you are attending this program, spending time with your family or just taking the day off, remember to stop what you are doing at 3 p.m. and remember the men and women who gave their lives defending the United States of America.