The Significance of Memorial Day with Alejandro Villanueva

Alejandro Villanueva, a former NFL player and Army veteran, shares his thoughts on Memorial Day, emphasizing its significance in honoring fallen soldiers. He recounts the story of Jesse Dietrich, a young soldier who sacrificed his life, highlighting the personal impact of such losses. Villanueva reflects on the importance of remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

What position does Alejandro Villanueva play for the Pittsburgh Steelers?

• Quarterback

• Wide Receiver

• Running Back

• Left Tackle

Before joining the NFL, what was Alejandro Villanueva's profession?

• Soldier

• Teacher

• Firefighter

• Police Officer

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.3

CCSS.RI.6.5

CCSS.RI.7.5

CCSS.RI.8.3

CCSS.RI.9-10.3

What does Memorial Day mean to those who have served in the military?

• A day to watch sports

• A day to celebrate with family

• A day to go shopping

• A day to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.8.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

When did the tradition of decorating graves to honor fallen soldiers begin?

• After World War II

• In 1868

• In 1971

• After World War I

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.8.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

What is the modern focus of Memorial Day for most people?

• Reflecting on death

• Sharing moments of happiness with loved ones

• Attending parades

• Decorating graves

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RI.8.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

Why do people often focus on what they have rather than what they've lost on Memorial Day?

• They don't know the history

• They are too busy

• They forget the meaning of the day

• It's human nature to celebrate life

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RI.8.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Who was Jesse Dietrich?

• A famous athlete

• A soldier who served with Alejandro Villanueva

• A politician

• A historical figure from the Civil War

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.9

CCSS.RL.8.9

Why did Jesse Dietrich enlist in the Army?

• To travel the world

• To support his infant son

• To follow a family tradition

• To escape his hometown

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.8.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

What happened to Jesse Dietrich on August 25th, 2011?

• He returned home

• He was ambushed and didn't survive

• He received a medal

• He was promoted

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.1

CCSS.RI.8.1

CCSS.RL.6.1

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

What should people think about on Memorial Day according to Alejandro Villanueva?

• The 1.1 million servicemen and women who sacrificed their lives

• The history of the holiday

• The parades and celebrations

• The sports events

Tags

CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3