Tampa, FL -- For lots of Bay Area students, Memorial Day means a three day weekend.
Hanging out and relaxing...maybe a barbeque or day at the beach.
But for six years now, Boy Scout Kolby Miller has spent his Memorial Day along with his fellow scouts, laying flags at the headstones of those buried at the American Legion Cemetery on Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa.
Honoring those who've served and sacrificed.
“It kind of holds a special place in my heart because I can appreciate what the military does for our country,” said Kolby.
In part, that’s because Kolby's mother, Katherine Miller, is an Air Force veteran from a military family.
She’s also a volunteer with the American Legion, and part of the local Coast Guard Auxiliary.
She hopes to instill that same sense of service and sacrifice in her son and his generation.
Respect and appreciation for the true meaning of Memorial Day.
“There needs to be more people out there giving, and serving and showing people what Memorial Day is really about,” said Katherine, “It's not about sales and barbecues.”
Kolby knows his mom is right. A lot of his classmates, he says, will spend the day playing video games, hanging out at the beach or going to the mall.
“A lot of people don't understand what it's all about. And they just think it's like a holiday. So, yeah it would be nice if more people knew what it was actually about,” said Kolby.
Veterans gathering for a Memorial Day service at the American Legion Post watched as the young volunteers moved one by one – from headstone to headstone.
Carefully -- respectfully -- placing the American Flag on each grave.
“They come out here and do the best they can. And we appreciate it so much,” said Daniel Carter, a retired U.S. Marine. “Because at one time, they may be wearing the uniform.”
Veterans say they appreciate the gesture, not just of the young people; but of the parents determined to bring their children to such events.
A small sacrifice on behalf of those who sacrificed so much.
