MEMORIAL    DAY    

CELEBRATIONS

While many of us are enjoying parties, picnics and barbecues marking the beginning of summer with friends and family, let's not forget what else we are celebrating.

HISTORY

Memorial Day started as many separate remembrances of fallen soldiers from the Civil War. Towns and cities often chose a day in spring to visit grave sites and bring flowers. (Consequently the original name of the day was "Decoration Day") Dignitaries and friends would give eulogies and tributes to honor the fallen soldiers. They would also sing hymns and recite prayers. 

While these acknowledgments continued for decades as independent events in both the North and the South, the first government sponsored Decoration Day event was at Arlington cemetery shortly after the Civil War. It honored those buried there--both northern and southern soldiers. 

An official proclamation was made on May 5, 1868, announcing May 30th of that year as a national time of "decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country..." A century later, in 1968, the holiday was set on the last Monday in May, and declared a federal holiday. In the early 20th century, beginning after World War I, the day became a day to honor the soldiers who died in all wars.

SIGNIFICANCE

It is difficult to focus on the origins of the holiday without recognizing that "freedom isn't free". That's a well-used phrase but it simply states the truth: the freedom to celebrate--today, or any day-- has been bought with a price. We are and remain indebted. It is easy to forget that--and many of us do-- just like we lose sight of other blessings that we have come to assume and expect. 

Memorial Day commemorates the lives of those in our American history who lost their lives for the sake of a just cause and for our freedom--the freedom which many are still protecting... the freedom and way of life that is still costing lives, even now. 

TRADITIONS AND OBSERVANCES

On Memorial Day, the flag is raised to the top of the flagpole, then reverently lowered to half-mast (to recall the lives of those men and women who lost their lives) where it remains until noon. At noon, the flag is raised again, signifying the resolve of the living servicemen who rise up in their stead to defend their country. 

Other ways to honor those who gave their lives is to put flowers, flags, or candles on the graves of soldiers; attend or take part in a parade; or--for all of us--to observe the "National Moment of Remembrance" at 3 p.m. on that day... in thought, in prayer, with respect...

PAY HOMAGE

While Veterans Day (on November 11th) has been established for those currently in the armed services, Memorial Day is still a good day to remember the sacrifices made by our present-day soldiers and veterans to keep our country free. 

They, themselves, cannot forget their fallen comrades, and in solidarity with them, and in appreciation for them, we can recognize their military service and their willingness to place themselves in harm's way.

It’s a day to honor and thank veterans (and their families) for their contributions to our success and peace and well-being. It’s a good day to visit one of the many war memorials, or encourage a family member or a friend—who is a veteran, or who is close to one—to do so.

World War II memorials have opened in Washington, D.C. (in 2004), and in New Orleans, Louisiana (in the year 2000). Other memorials exist all around the country, from Gettysburg memorials to the moving Vietnam War memorial, also in Washington, D.C.

REMEMBERING THE SURVIVORS

We can also remember to continue to help the veterans who came home from the war zone injured, and in need of help and support. The battles they fight still continue—for life, for health and for well-being, while many of the rest of us have gained our country’s peaceful advantages from their offering.

We can recognize service men and women in airports and other public places,and express our personal appreciation and thanks. We can keep in touch with neighbors, loved ones, and co-workers who are serving, and let them know we have not forgotten them.

Last, but not least, we can continue our on-going prayer for those who are still assigned to active combat zones—for protection and courage, safety and peace.

And we can persist in praying for those veterans and their caring families dealing with injuries and trauma-- including physical, mental, emotional and spiritual-- for healing and help, encouragement and strength.

Finally--you past and present, survivors and fallen heroes, and even you who are struggling now--

We salute you! We applaud you! And we hold you in our hearts...

MEMORIAL DAY, MAY 30TH