This weekend kicks off the Memorial Day holiday, the actual holiday is always the last Monday of May. This holiday is for honoring and remembering, the men and women who died while serving in the Armed Forces. Memorial Day is often confused with Veteran's Day, which honors those who have served in the Armed Forces.

As we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice so we can be free, there will be parades, festivals, outdoor BBQ's and more. Click here for local events happening in East Texas this Memorial Day weekend.

On Memorial Day the flag of the United States is raised quickly to the top of the pole and then solemnly lowered to half-staff, where it remains until noon. It is then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day.

The half-staff position remembers the men and women who gave their lives in service of their country. The raising of the flag to full staff at noon, symbolizes those who are living will remember their sacrifices and will continue to fight for liberty and justice for all.

One of the longest-standing traditions is the Indianapolis 500, which has been held on the Sunday before Memorial Day since 1911. Also, the Coca-Cola 600 stock car race, which is held later the same day since 1961. Then there is the Memorial Tournament golf event that's held on or close to the Memorial Day weekend since 1976.

Of course, since Memorial Day is so close to the opening of summer, it is tradition for a lot of Americans to have BBQ's.

This Memorial Day weekend, I hope you take a minute to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we can live free. Happy Memorial Day East Texas, and God Bless!

TRACE ADKINS: 'ARLINGTON'

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