“Old Folks” understand the meaning and the why of Memorial Day but, alas, I fear that most “young folks” think it is just another 3 day holiday and a time of fun.But is it? Should we look at it as just another occasion for fireworks, cookouts, the opening of swimming pools, the beginning of summer vacations, and goofing off?
I remember my Parents and Grandparents putting flowers and flags on graves (of military and family) and referring to this special day as “Decoration Day”, its original name. The name was changed to Memorial Day after World War I, but they still referred to it as Decoration Day.
So, what exactly IS Decoration Day / Memorial day and why do we observe it?
The opening paragraph in Wikipedia says:
“Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May (May 25 in 2009). Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War (it is celebrated near the day of reunification after the civil war), it was expanded after World War I to include American casualties of any war or military action.”
To learn more about this very significant Holiday and there is much more to know, CLICK HERE
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To hear a short media file of taps CLICK HERE
