Memorial Day Remembrance – May 30, 2010

 “Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day as a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service.  There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is evidence that organized women’s groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil war. While Waterloo New York was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it is difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day.  It is not important about who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division, it is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.” [Taken from an article on Memorial Day History]

 Unfortunately traditional observance of Memorial Day has diminished over the years. Many people feel that when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend with the National Holiday Act of 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day. I believe that changing the date merely to create a three day weekend has undermined the very meaning of this dayof rememberance.

 I can’t help but wonder how many young people really do not think about or even know what Memorial Day represents. It seems to be all about three days off to celebrate the beginning of summer, having picnics, parties and outdoor barbecues. And there is the ever growing popularity of the commercial aspect – ‘sales’ that abound for every holiday. This is not to say that these family celebrations are not good things because they are, but I feel that Americans need to be reminded of the true meaning of Memorial Day.

 ”To help to re-educate us, the National Moment of Remembrance resolution was passed in December of 2000, which asks that at 3:00 p.m. local time, for all Americans to voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence to remember, reflect and honor those who have given their all in the service to their country so that we can enjoy the freedom that we have.”

 Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic and was first observed on 30 May 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. [Taken from the article Memorial Day History]

Next: Remembering My Father on Memorial Day