Do you feel Happy Memorial Day is appropriate to say?

If it’s someone close to me, I speak to them and educate them on what the day is truly for. If it’s a stranger, I simply accept the comment, thank them and move on. They are attempting to be respectful after all, they simply just aren’t educated on the topic.

I think you honor the intent behind it. Is it the most appropriate/skillful utterance ever? Nope. Is the intent to be positive & supportive? I think so. I would reply "thank you", as that is what I was taught to do when someone TRIES to do something good.

I think we generally give ourselves a black eye when we attempt to "educate" or "elevate" people who are trying to be kind. Especially if our education sounds condescending or like a lecture.

It has happened for years, doesn't bother me. I had a sister who used to call me every Veterans day and Memorial day. I always told her I wasn't dead yet. They mean no harm. Just let it pass.