As we start the Memorial Day weekend, let us take just a moment to deliver an important reminder about this holiday and how it is covered. Bob Dotson, the legendary correspondent for NBC’s Today Show, reminds us of what to do in his excellent 2015 book about “writing and packaging visual news.” And he summed it up in just three simple words:

Make It Memorable.

While Memorial Day is the unofficial start to Summer for many, it is also one of the most solemn holidays our nation celebrates. It is the day in which we mourn and honor our deceased service men and women. (Differing from Veteran’s Day which is celebrated each November and honors all those who have served the country.)

Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, has a long history that goes all the way back to the Civil War. From its humble beginnings and evolution over the years, the last Monday in May is celebrated in many different ways across the nation. And because we cover these stories each year, there can sometimes be a utilitarian approach to how we produce such coverage.

But there is so much opportunity to take the storytelling beyond that on this holiday.

We’ve seen amazing stories over the years, ranging from profiles of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in World War II to those who fought and died in the wars since. In Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and all the other locations where those who served were stationed. Those who served in combat as well as those who served in the unseen–and mostly unknown roles, each supported an effort, which in turn supported a greater cause.

Their stories deserved to be told. And they deserve to be told in a way that they will be remembered.

We urge you to think a little differently about this Memorial Day and approach the stories of this holiday with a sense of curiosity and a willingness to put in some extra effort to make each one more memorable. It is a great opportunity to try something different, like perhaps a visual essay using only natural sound. Or a profile of one particular person’s legacy as honored by those who survived them.

By capturing the special moments of this Memorial Day, and in turn, crafting better words and video to present those stories, you can honor those who gave their lives in the service of their country.

Their memory certainly deserves it.