Once again, Memorial Day is upon us and should be foremost on our minds. I feel it's a privilege and an honor to live in the land of the free and I honor those who have made this possible. "Love this country or leave it". But, do you know the history behind this special day?
The rememberance of this day stretches back to the Civil War, to honor those who died in the service of their country.
It was originally called "Decoration Day", for it was a day set aside to honor the nation's Civil War dead by decorating their graves.
In 1966, the Federal government, under the direction ofPresident Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo, NY, the official birthplace of Memorial Day. They chose Waterloo because on May 5, 1866, the town made Memorial Day an annual community-wide event during which
businesses closed and the residents would decorate the graves of the soldiers with flowers and flags.
Today, Memorial Day is celebrated at Arlington National Cemetery in which a small American flag is placed upon each grave. Also, it is customary for the president or vice-president to give a speech honoring the contributions of the dead and lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
That is why it is so special to America's families and those individuals who contributed above and beyond the call of duty.
Now you know the real story...
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