May it be a day of peace.
A Brief History of this Holiday
* The day was originally set aside to remember Union soldiers who died during the Civil War, but following World War I, its scope expanded to include those who died in any war or military action.
* The idea for a specific holiday came in 1868 from Illinois Senator John Alexander Logan, a former Union general and keynote speaker for the fraternal organization of Union soldiers. He called it "Decoration Day" to be observed on May 30.
*The name "Memorial Day," started cropping up from time to time. The new name became more common after WW II, and in 1967 when it was declared the official name by Federal law.
Most people nowadays aren't familiar with the history of this holiday. Granted, there are still small parades in some cities and flag-plantings at veteran cemeteries.
The holiday is more well known for being a national three-day social event where bar-b-que enthusiasts proudly grill hamburgers and all-American hot dogs while beer flows like rivers through the heartland.
My memories of fallen comrades in Vietnam still haunt me at times. But on this day, I celebrate their lives and share their stories with loved ones and friends.
As it stands, this is a day for all Americans to remember those who gave their lives in our military to preserve the freedoms we all enjoy today.
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