Memorial Day is our annual holiday set aside to remember soldiers that died in battle. During this last Monday in May many people will visit memorial and cemetery sites in order to honor fallen soldiers. 

Three years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of an organization of Union veterans established "Decoration Day" as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30, presumably because it was thought that flowers would be in bloom all over the country.

The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. It was not until after World War I, however, that the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, and then was placed on the last Monday in May, as were some other federal holidays.

Memorial Day can often be seen as the summer “Kick-off” but this is also a time to enjoy the freedom our soldiers work so very hard to protect. Whether you are visiting memorials, hanging out at the pool, or barbecuing with friends - don’t let the preparations or little inconveniences throughout the day get to you.

Remember to appreciate the day and most of all, appreciate the people who sacrificed their lives so we can enjoy it.

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY 2014!

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