Memorial Day Observance

Like so many of our holidays, Memorial Day has taken on a meaning that is far from its original intent.  Far too many people, both young and old, do not know its origin, nor cherish its meaning.  It has become another three day week end of gathering together for frolic and fun.  A three day week end to start off the summer months. History is being forgotten, distorted, and trampled.

Originally called Decoration Day, the town of origin is not known.  Perhaps it started simultaniously in towns through out the states involved in the Civil War.  Memorial Day was officially proclaimed by General John Logan on May 5, 1868 and observed on May 30th, as flowers were laid  on the graves of both Union and Confereate Soldiers at Arlington National Cemetary.  Even though its actual beginning is not known, LBJ, in 1966, declared Waterloo, NY, as its birth place.  (Didn't sit well with those in the south and probably still doesn't.)

The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York and followed by all the northern states. However, the south refused to honor their dead on this day until after WWI, when the the holiday was changed to honor all who have died in all wars fought.

Remember the red poppies?  Many of our nation do not even know the term, but the red poppy got its start when Moina Michael wrote a response to the poem "Flander's Field."

We cherish too, the Poppy red

That grows on fields where valor led

It seems to signal to the skies

That blood of heroes never dies.

Ms Michael then conceived the idea of the red poppies to be sold on Memorial Day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war.  The money was given to charities supporting the veterans of these wars.  I wonder if we could bring this tradition back?  

In 1971, the Memorial was set as the last Monday of May by the National Holiday Act, and this began the three day week end.  It also began the demise of the original intent:  that of honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country and its liberties. 

There is nothing wrong with having family get togethers and fun on this day, but let us, please, take time to give honor where honor is due.  Personally, I want to thank Issac Diaz and Justin Hebert's families for their sacrifice...  These deaths in the WAR ON TERROR touched home.  May God richly bless the families of our fallen and give them peace.  May the God of all Glory protect and keep those serving today.