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It was May 1868, just three years since the end of the Civil War.
Many communities were commemorating the sacrifices of the
soldiers who had fought and died on the battlefield. General
John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic (an
organization of former sailors and soldiers) wanted to have
all who wanted to honor the Civil War dead to band together
on the same day. Thus "Decoration Day" was born.
On May 5th, 1868 General Logan declared in General Order
#11, "The 30th of May, 1868 is designated for the purpose of
strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of
comrades who died in defense of their country during the late
rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village,
and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form
of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their
own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect
as circumstances may permit."
By the late 1880's many communities across the country were
celebrating Decoration Day. After World War I came to an
end, people began to observe "Memorial Day" in May for those
who had died on the battlefield in any war American soldiers
had fought.
In 1971, Congress set aside the last Monday in May to be a new
National Holiday. It was to be a day of remembrance for all those
men and women who had given their lives in defense of their country.
It was officially named "Memorial Day", which is what most had
called it for many years.
This year, we celebrate Memorial Day on May 26th. Remember
to raise your flags in the morning to half staff, and then at noon raise
them the rest of the way until days end.
Let us also remember all those American soldiers who gave their
lives for the freedoms we have in this country. We hope that
those countries around the world who have their freedom because
of our service men and women, will also remember the sacrifices
that have been made for them.
To all of you who have worn the uniform of our country, our heartfelt
and sincere thanks for your service. Somehow 'Thank You' never is
enough. You are all heros. For us, we will never, never, ever forget. ~ The LadyFisher
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