HONORING THE FALLEN
It’s MEMORIAL DAY everyone. For some, it’s a great day to get out of town and travel. Or watch a parade. Or throw a party or a barbeque. But, do you know how the holiday began? And, do you know why it’s still celebrated today around the United States?
Now, accounts vary. But, most seem to agree that Memorial Day had its start in 1865 in Charleston, South Carolina where there was a plot of land in which many Union prisoners of war were buried in unmarked graves. One day in May, a group of freed men and schoolchildren cleaned the graves, decorated them and then held a small memorial service honoring them.
The following year in 1866 another ceremony took place in Waterloo, New York. In this one, a committee gathered on May 5 to decorate the graves of Union veterans who were buried in the nearby cemetery.
The tradition caught on, and two years later in 1868 General John A. Logan, the national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, proclaimed a national holiday called “Decoration Day.” It would honor both Union and Confederate fallen soldiers and would be observed each year on May 30th so as not to commemorate any particular battle.
Over the years, however, popularity of the holiday increased and was changed to include all service women and men after World War I. After World War II the name of the holiday was changed to Memorial Day. And, in 1971 the date of the holiday was changed from May 30 to the last Monday in May – the day on which we celebrate today. Indeed,
And, let’s not confuse Memorial Day with Veteran’s Day. You see, the former celebrates those service women and men who have died in service while fighting for their country. In contrast, the latter celebrates all Veterans — everyone who has served in the armed forces. And, this holiday is recognized every year on November 11th.
So, this Memorial Day enjoy the three-day weekend. Spend it with family and friends. Have a wonderful time taking advantage of all this country has to offer. But, somewhere in the festivities – between the hot dogs and the games and the fireworks and the concerts – take time to remember those whose sacrifice made possible all the advantages and freedoms we enjoy today.
“Each for himself gathered up the cherished purposes of life – its aims and ambitions, its dearest affections – and flung all, with life itself, into the scale of battle.” James Garfield – 20th President of the United States
On this Memorial Day, may I add my thanks to all who have served our country – and have paid the ultimate price and sacrifice.
And, thanks to all of you for joining me again. Have a wonderful holiday with family and friends and until next time stay in GOOD HEALTH and . . .
TAKE THE COURSE AND TAKE CHARGE!
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