Memorial Day: Remembering Those Who Have Died During Military Service
Let us never forget the purpose of this special day, which is to honor and remember the men and women who have died in service to their country.
Memorial Day originated as Decoration Day. After the Civil War, many folks decorated the graves of the fallen with flowers. In 1868 (three years after the Civil War ended), Gen. John Logan designated a day (May 30) when the graves of Civil War soldiers would be decorated.
After World War I, the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars.
In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress and was set as the last Monday in May.
Since Memorial Day became part of a three-day weekend, some have expressed concern that many Americans have lost sight of the significance of the day: Memorial Day being used as a celebration of the beginning of summer rather than as a time to honor and remember the military personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Over the years, there have been petitions to restore Memorial Day observance to May 30.
Enjoy the holiday, but don't forget its true meaning.
-----New Berlin Veterans Memorial
