Flags and Flowers – Honoring Our Fallen Military Heroes on Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died while serving this great country of ours. Originating after the Civil War (1861-1865), Memorial Day – or Decoration Day as it was originally called – is observed by decorating the gravesites of soldiers who died protecting this nation’s freedoms and rights protected by the United States Constitution. In 1971, Memorial Day was expanded to honor all who have died during American conflicts and wars and was officially declared a national holiday by the United States Congress.

At Anago, it’s a special honor to recognize this day in solemn remembrance of American troops who’ve paid the ultimate price for freedom and to protect our nation’s liberties. Anago was founded by a military veteran more than 30 years ago. David Povlitz served his country honorably and returned to civilian life to raise a family and start a business. Anago was born from the very freedoms Mr. Povlitz chose to protect as a military man and the company’s focus on celebrating veterans – both alive and deceased – is built firmly into the brand’s core pillars.

If you choose to honor our military heroes by visiting gravesites, placing flags and flowers while cleaning headstones, please take a moment to read some important information while doing so. We recommend checking with the cemetery’s maintenance service first before attempting to clean gravestones, as they might have a schedule or restrictions to preserve the headstone’s integrity.

• First, assess the gravestone. Every cleaning has the potential to damage the stone so please be careful and considerate. Do your homework on the material (granite, sandstone, marble, etc.) as each will have a different cleaning method and recommendation.
• Make sure you have the right materials such as non-ionic cleanser, mild soap, new sponges, and clean water (unless there’s an accessible hose at the cemetery).
• When you arrive at the gravestone, check for damages. If you see signs of damage (cracks or flaking), please clean cautiously. Damage indicates that the stone is weakened, and improper cleaning can further threaten its integrity. Avoid putting pressure on the weakened areas.
• Gently wipe down the surface starting from the bottom of the stone and work your way up. Once it’s wiped, you can use a brush to gently scrub away dirt and grime from the surface. Lastly, make sure to completely rinse and dry when finished.

On behalf of Anago’s military veteran founder, and the family that continues to grow this leading commercial cleaning franchise business, and to all our Master and Unit Franchisees who have honorably served this nation, we remember the men and women who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice. We honor each hero, their families, and the freedoms we’re afforded due to their honor, bravery and selflessness toward God, Country, and every single man, woman and child living in this great nation.

During this Memorial Day weekend celebration, please be safe, demonstrate kindness to your neighbors and community and enjoy the holiday with friends, family and loved ones.