Does it bother you when someone says "Happy Memorial Day?"

I personally can't stand it. Admittedly I am at a loss on what would be more appropriate. I really get uncomfortable when people thank me for my service on Memorial day because it isn't about me. It's about our absent friends and all our fallen brothers and sisters.

The Washington Post seems to be on a roll this weekend, COL Charles Williams:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/nationals/military-tributes-at-baseball-games-true-honors-or-hollow-gestures/2015/05/23/3dc36364-0154-11e5-833c-a2de05b6b2a4_story.html

I say yes it is a happy memorial day because it is the day of my mother or daughters birth but it is a sad day because someone had to die this day to fight for my country. My Poppa was Iwo Jima he received a purple heart, was shot 2 times the 2nd time he was shot Ira Hayes carried him down the hill. Is it a happy day yes because I celebrate the birth of my daughter and the birth of my mother even though she is gone now. However; I mourn the loss of all those who have died for me and have died for my country.

Does it bother me? Naw. When I do hear "Happy Memorial Day!," I do slightly grit my teeth, force a smile, and respond with a "Thanks." I equate this to people who say something dumb at a funeral. Some just don't understand the relationship(s) among veterans and are, inadvertently, blissful --Errant choice of words but with really good intentions.

Yeah, A little. I try to say thank the ones who never came home

Memorial Day is for the fallen. It's not for free meals, sales, insincere platitudes etc.

Can't say that I've ever heard anybody say that.

Then again, my sons learned very early in life how to explain the difference between Memorial Day and Veteran's Day to folks who would try telling their father that Memorial Day was meant to honor veterans like him...

It urks me a bit. I wish they would understand what the holiday is about in the first place. It is like asking your Muslim friend is he wants go out and eat during Ramaḍān. It just isn't something that really makes sense. But then I am sure if you asked many people on the Fourth of July what year did we claim our independence they wouldn't know it either.

No, I do not get angry or mad but I am a little disappointed. And I just try to explain the true meaning of Memorial Day. In hopes they too will remember and pay respect to the people who died while serving in the country's armed forces.

It just doesn't sit right Sir.