Monday, May 26, 2008

Memorial Day




Memorial Day is the day to remember those who have paid the price for our freedom by laying down their life for their country!



Below is a brief history of Memorial Day!

Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day because it was a time set aside to honor the nation's Civil War dead by decorating their graves. It was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers, by proclamation of General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of former sailors and soldiers. On May 5, 1868, Logan declared in General Order No. 11 that:


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.

1 comment:

Lois said...

Yesterday I saw an ad or public service announcement where servicemen & women had just landed & entered an airport lobby...& one lone person starts clapping & soon everyone is clapping & it continues as these soldiers progress throughout the airport lobby. And, all of a sudden, a "thank you" comes on the screen...I believe that it is supported by a beer company. It was very moving to me.
Thanks to you, Gary, for your service to our country.