Once again, America’s brave sons and daughters are making the definitive sacrifice overseas, defending our freedoms from tyranny and oppression abroad. When we ask so much from our military, the least we can do is honor that sacrifice by commemorating their struggles. Parades are more than testaments of patriotism. They are expressions of gratitude, a handshake for a job well done in the spirit of the American military uniform.

Ribbons and medals are bestowed for heroism performed on the battlefield, and thus should be worn proudly as tributes to the valor the uniform represents. Many soldiers and veterans are opting for lighter, thin ribbons that hold the same dignity and shininess of the regular medals, but are much lighter to wear and ideal for parades. They take off the weight while carrying the honor. Sacrifices have already been made in the performance of duty. Lighter ribbons honor that sacrifice with dignity, while being more comfortable for the solider or veteran at the same time.

In fact, thin ribbons have been approved by the Institute of Heraldry for all branches of the United States military, including the Army, Air Force, Navy, or Coast Guard. The medals were first distributed during the Korean War as a way to bestow the same dignity that was more comfortable to wear, not weighing the soldier or veteran down anymore than was necessary.

In the face of two military theaters in Iraq and Afghanistan and the flames of war on every horizon, thin ribbons and lighter medals are becoming more popular as people wish to proclaim their patriotism in a more comfortable and convenient uniform that doesn’t weigh them down. It’s especially helpful as many parades take place in the warmth of the summer, which can be trying on the brave men and women who march so proudly down our cities’ streets. Why shouldn’t they be honored comfortably with a dignity they deserve?

If you have a son or daughter, father or grandfather who has served or currently in service to their country, ease their comfort in long hot parades with thinner medals and ribbons that are lighter but still pay the same dignified tribute. It’s a humble way of saying thank-you for sacrifices so nobly made for the freedoms we hold dear.