Sometimes we see national holidays as a time to gather the family together for a reunion and a cookout. For many, Memorial Day marks the official beginning of summer as they head out on the first family camping trip. For others, it is simply an extra day off from work. But those who have lost loved ones to military service know the true meaning of Memorial Day. Do you?
With just a quick look at the facts, I found that May 30 was first set aside in 1868 as "Decoration Day." Illinois Senator John Alexander Logan, a former Union General, proclaimed the day as a remembrance to the Union soldiers who gave their lives in the Civil War and asked that their tombs be decorated.
About fifteen years later, the name Memorial Day started appearing in speech and print and following World War I, the remembrance was expanded to include all Americans who died during war or military action. It became a national holiday in 1967 and the new date arrived with the passage of the uniform national holidays bill that moved all national holidays to Mondays in 1968.
It is my honor to recognize and give thanks to all military personnel who have died in service to our country. You have made our nation a better place to live. Thank you.
Please click here to enjoy a slideshow of the Memorial Day remembrance service held in Mercer County.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment