Janaea Soares Hunter is the Owner / Associate Broker at HHH Realty, Associate Broker at EXIT Realty Success and lives in Saratoga Springs, Utah. Janaea posted the following about Memorial Day on social media.
A small but meaningful pet peeve of mine is hearing “Happy Memorial Day.” It’s not a day for celebration — it’s a day of remembrance. Memorial Day is a solemn time to honor and reflect on the lives of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. It’s a moment to pause, to remember the wars fought both near and far, and to recognize the profound cost of the liberties we enjoy every day.
We owe a debt we can never repay to those who laid down their lives for this country. In their memory, let us live fully—with laughter, with love, and with deep gratitude for each fleeting moment we are given.
I’ll admit, I never truly understood the weight and sacredness of this day—until Bowden joined the Marines. I always thought Veterans Day would be the one that represented him and his service. It never occurred to me that Memorial Day might one day carry his name in its quiet, reverent embrace.
Bowden served with his whole heart and soul. He fought so his family, friends, and country could remain safe. He never once regretted his service. Even through the battles he continued to fight after coming home, he stood by his commitment and would have done it all again in a heartbeat.
Today, I remember Bowden. I remember every brave soul who gave their life in defense of this nation. I remember them not with just tears, but with purpose—with the promise to cherish the freedoms they secured for us.
So yes, spend this day with your loved ones. Laugh, make memories, enjoy the sunshine. But please—take a moment. Remember who made that possible. Remember those who gave everything so we could live freely. That’s what Memorial Day is for.
Memorial Day is NOT a Happy Day
🔷 Memorial Day is solemn day of Remembrance
