Written by: renoir77
5/23/2009 8:26 AM

Memorial Day originally began as "Decoration Day", a time where families and Americans would decorate the graves of fallen Civil War soldiers.  The original Memorial Day order:

"The 30th day 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 or ceremony is prescribed, but Posts and comrades will, in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit."

By 1971, though, when the date was changed to a Monday each year, the commemoration of military veterans lost some of it's luster as Memorial Day became just another Monday holiday to provide three day weekends for the working public.  As barbeques, vacations, and frolics at the beach take place, we often overlook the significance of the moment.

I just want to say thank you to the servicemembers from the Revolution to the Global War on Terror.  There have been many conflicts over the 250 year history of the United States.  Sometimes, we may disagree with a war or battle, but we can always be grateful for those who risked and often gave their lives for the defense and freedom of this country.  Thank you for sacrificing yourselves so that I can live in the freedom and tranquility of the United States.

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