Let's pretend it's summer

Summer is still technically a month distant, but when it comes to Memorial Day weekend, who's worried about technicalities?

Unofficially, camping season opens now. One of the most popular warm-weather pastimes in these climes won't subside until Labor Day more than three months away.

While campsites, lakes and trails entice many, backyard barbecues will become standard operating procedure for most of the rest of us. Even if summer isn't here according to the calendar, it's here according to your neighbors.

Officially speaking, however, let's all remember and recognize Memorial Day for what it is. The holiday is not intended to recognize all U.S. military veterans; it is distinctly designated to honor all Americans who died while in military service. Its roots go back to post-Civil War days when Americans decided to honor union and confederate soldiers who had died in that war. It was known as Decoration Day until roughly half a century ago, when the new title broadened the scope of recognition to all Americans who had died while in military service.

Unofficially, most of us don't stop there. For many, Memorial Day is simply a day of remembrance - a day to honor fellow Americans who died in the line of duty. The Press editorial board includes itself in that number, mindful that many citizens will be pausing to honor the distinguished service of recently fallen Coeur d'Alene Police Officer Sgt. Greg Moore.

Whatever your plans for the weekend may be, we hope that in the midst of your fun family outings, you'll take time to reflect on those who gave their lives so we could enjoy the freedom to do what we wish.

And please, please: Don't drink and drive. There are enough Memorial Day graves as it is.