Remember Memorial Day
Posted By RichC on May 29, 2006
Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day and began to be observed on May 30th, 1868 to commemorate the sacrifies of Civil War soldiers. It was declared a General Order No. 11 by General John A. Logan May 5, 1868. The General Order stated:
“The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.”
Over the past century many men and women have serviced their country. Over 35 million served in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, Iraq, and as well as several smaller engagments requiring our armed service personel. Unfortunately, more than half a million Americans gave the ultimate sacrifice dying for our country.
Let’s all remember that Memorial Day is more than celebrating the end of spring and the beginning of summer … it a time to reflect on those who have given their lives for the freedoms that we all to often take for granted.
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