On May 3, 2000, President Bill Clinton released a memorandum from the White House regarding the National Moment of Remembrance. 

“In this time of unprecedented success and prosperity throughout our land, I ask that all Americans come together to recognize how fortunate we are to live in freedom and to observe a universal “National Moment of Remembrance” on each Memorial Day. This memorial observance represents a simple and unifying way to commemorate our history and honor the struggle to protect our freedoms.

Accordingly, I hereby direct all executive departments and agencies, in consultation with the White House Program for the National Moment of Remembrance (Program), to promote a “National Moment of Remembrance” to occur at 3 p.m. (local time) on each Memorial Day.”

I know you’ll be busy today. Most of you have the day off and I hope you’ll have a lovely day with family and friends. But maybe at 3:00, you’ll remember to say a prayer, or just a heartfelt thank-you. 

It only takes a moment.