This Week In American History: March 18th is National Supreme Sacrifice Day. It is a day observed annually. A day of commemoration, it honors those who sacrificed their lives for the sake and good of others.
The Day’s Origin
Frequently, soldiers who served and perished in war are the ones who first come to mind when picturing heroes. However, hero celebrations originally began in the early 1900s after the death of Alfred Vanderbilt. Vanderbilt was a wealthy American businessman well known during his life for his over the top lifestyle and womanizing. In 1915, Vanderbilt boarded the RMS Lusitania. Somewhere at sea, the Lusitania wrecked. Vanderbilt assisted many women and children who otherwise would have died in the wreck, by getting them onto lifeboats. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt himself died in the wreck. Ultimately, he ended up a hero; revered in folk tales for his bravery in the last moments of his life.
In further back, in the year 1665, an entire English village sacrificed themselves for the common good. The village of Eyam was one of the first to experience the Bubonic plague and all 800 villagers decided to self-quarantine. Two-hundred and sixty of the villagers ended up passing away due to the plague.
The National Supreme Sacrifice Day became officially recognized in America in the year 2004. However, it is celebrated by people and organizations in other parts of the world as well.
Ways To Observe National Supreme Sacrifice Day
- Remember, just like Alfred Vanderbilt, heroes may come in unlikely forms.
- Create awareness of the day. One way to do this is to use the hashtag #supremesacrificeday on social media.
- Visit a local memorial and learn the names of local heroes in your area.
- Participate in events around your state that support the military and first responders.
- Do something good yourself. Even if you don’t make the ultimate sacrifice, you can still do something good for someone in your life. In the long run, doing good is what this day is about.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Info Source: NationalToday.com and NationalDayCalendar.com
Photo Source: AdobeStock
