It is no secret that Memorial Day, for many, has become a summer stalwart — a beer and hot dog day for relaxation, get-togethers and, weather willing, pools and hammocks.

Many people parse Memorial Day as a day to honor veterans, but fail to necessarily make the connection that it is specifically for our fallen service members.

Far from a party day, Memorial Day is supposed to be a somber occasion.

And while many may not mind the coexistence of the sales and the parties — or the day off work, if you’re fortunate enough to get it — it is always worth remembering the “reason for the season,” to steal from Christmas for a moment.

Memorial Day is for those who gave of themselves in service to something greater; for those who did great deeds that may have seemed like “just Tuesday.”

Much is often made of the heroes of our armed services — as well as first responders, medical professionals and others that our culture elevates.

However, we think not enough is made of the everyday nature of so many of their tasks.

For many, they were going about their morning routines the same as we do, when they were suddenly called to action: a call they heeded, because it was their job to do so.

Not because they were Marvel’s Avengers-style superheroes, but because they were everymen; heroes who showed up, worked hard, and — for some — gave it all because it was simply the right thing to do in accordance with our shared values.

Frankly, we think that despite our cultural obsession with super-heroes and super-deeds, the things our troops accomplish are far more impressive and worthy of honor.

It’s one thing to have spectacular abilities and put yourself in harm’s way. It’s quite another to be Joe-from-high-school who receives training and equipment, but otherwise is asked to go to harm’s way with just guts.

The scope and scale of what is asked of our soldiers is astonishing — especially when you consider historical context.

And yet, so many have served without complaint through the decades: as long as the cause is just and the job needs doing, our troops will be there to get it done — and that never fails to inspire.

So this year, between burgers and dogs, beers and teas and yard games and whatever else you find time to get up to, take a few minutes and hold a moment of silence. Maybe say a prayer, if that’s your jam. Or, if you have the time to spare, consider attending one of the many services that will be held throughout the region this weekend.

And, spare a thought to the families whose loved ones never came home, as well — for whom the summer holiday aspect must surely cut deeply.

It is the cheapest price we can pay as we enjoy our freedom and prosperity while building on the graves of our neighbors.

A final thought: regardless of your politics and beliefs, leave the discourse at home this weekend. Even as divided as we are at the moment, there are days where it is unabashedly correct to be just American, not Democrat or Republican, religious or atheist, Eagles fan or Steelers fan, or any of the other myriad made-up ways with which we torment one another.

Sometimes, other things are more important. And we need to let them be.