Memorial Day is nearly here and that usually signals the start of summer in the U.S. The school year is over or almost over for students. Families are making plans for barbecues, camping and other activities to kick off the summer season. It’s a fun three-day weekend, yet Memorial Day has another, deeper meaning behind it.
Previously known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day has its roots in the Civil War. During the war many families from the South would honor the war dead by decorating their graves. Each community had their own specific date of recognition but generally a day was set aside in the Spring to sing, pray and honor those who had lost their lives for their country.
On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan, the national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, (GAR) a group for Union Civil War veterans, called for a day of remembrance to be celebrated nationwide. Flowers were to be placed on both Confederate and Union dead at Arlington National Cemetery. The date selected was May 30, 1868.
The observation continued through the latter part of the 1800’s. Soon after World War I, Decoration Day came to signify a remembrance of all soldiers who had fought and died through the years, giving their all for their country.
During the 20th century the name Decoration Day gave way to Memorial Day and the significance of the day has diminished. In 1971 Congress passed the law that the holiday would be celebrated on the last Monday in May, instead of on the 30th. This enabled all of us to enjoy a three-day weekend.
This year as you enjoy a family gathering or pool party remember the roots of Memorial Day and take a moment to honor those who died serving our country and protecting our freedoms.