Memorial Day

I always thought that Memorial Day began after World War 1. While researching its origins, I discovered it started after the Civil War. It commenced sporadically in towns and cities when each decided to honor their dead from the war.

In 1868, May 30 was established as Decoration Day, a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the Civil War dead with flowers. They held the first large observance at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C.

 After WW1, they expanded the day to honor those who died in all American Wars. In 1971 Congress declared Memorial Day a National Holiday and fixed it on the last Monday in May.

To those who have given their all in the armed forces past and present, I salute you.

Thank you for your sacrifice.