SUMMARY

Memorial Day was first established in the aftermath of the Civil War, but has become a day to mark all those who died serving in the military. As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, Judy Woodruff reports on a local project to mark our revolutionary origins and the final resting places of some of the nation’s first veterans. It’s part of her series, America at a Crossroads.

View the transcript of the story.

NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think about? What would you want to learn more about?

News alternative: Check out recent segments from the News Hour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

WARM-UP QUESTIONS

1. When was Memorial Day established?
2. Who does Memorial Day honor?
3. What does Matthew Lucas look for throughout the state of Ohio?
4. Why is there a focus on local efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S., according to John Dichtl?
5. How does the work of the local historians contribute to the community long-term?

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS

In this segment, historian Krista Horrocks says, "Yes, you can go to an event. You can go to a reenactment. All that is super fun. But to be able to contribute and say, I helped make this project possible, I think that's really what engages people and why we have had so much interest from people who aren't typical historians."

• Why do you think the focus of this and other America 250 projects is on local engagement?
• How do you think focus on local history can contribute to the culture and economy of a community?

Media literacy: Why do you think this segment focuses largely on one individual volunteer in one state? How could you find out more about volunteering to help preserve local history in your community?

WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO

Learn ways you can get involved as part of America 250. First, check out volunteer opportunities on the federal government's America 250 website. You may want to focus on Education/Youth opportunities.

• First, skim the opportunities and rank three possibilities that are most appealing to you. You might consider:
  • What would help meet needs in your community?
  • Which would you be most able to help with?
  • Which would be most fun or rewarding to you?
• After you've made your list, compare as a class. Which possibilities are the most popular? What would be some next steps you can take to start getting involved?

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