Memorial Day traditionally marks the beginning of summer, although the weather this year doesn’t feel much like summer yet. Despite the cool, rainy spring, Monday is Memorial Day, usually a holiday weekend devoted to family gatherings, cook-outs, camping, and graduation parties.
However, the true purpose of Memorial Day is much more–to honor and remember those who served and those who sacrificed their lives for our country.
Elm Grove Cem, St. Marys, Auglaize Co, OH (2013 photo by Karen)
Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day and dates back to right after the Civil War. The day was created as a way to remember and honor both Union and Confederate soldiers who were killed in battle.
In 1868, 30 May was officially proclaimed as the day to decorate Civil War graves. After WWI Memorial Day was extended to honor Americans who died in all wars. Today, although the focus is on military graves, many Americans use this holiday as a time to decorate any grave site, whether the deceased served in the military or not.
Memorial Day was declared a U.S. federal holiday in 1971 and is now observed the last Monday in May.
The entire month of May is Military Appreciation Month, with several specific military holidays: Loyalty Day (1 May), VE Day (8 May), Military Spouse Appreciation Day (12 May/Friday before Mother’s Day), Armed Forces Day (20 May), and Memorial Day (30 May).
Proper flag etiquette on Memorial Day: The American flag should be flown at half-staff until noon and then raised to full-staff. During a parade there may be several participants with a flag and it is appropriate to salute only the first flag as it passes by. As the first flag passes everyone should show respect by standing at attention with their right hand over their heart. Those in uniform should give their appropriate formal salute.
To my knowledge, I have three ancestors who died while serving in the Civil War:
Hallot Bryan (1831-1863), Private, Co E, 89th Regiment, Indiana Infantry, the brother of my 3rd great-grandfather John Bryan. Hallot is buried in Memphis National Cemetery.
Hallot Bryan, Memphis National Cemetery. (2014 submitted photo)
Daniel Schumm (1840-1863), Corporal, 52nd OVI, first cousin 3 times removed. Burial place unknown.
John Schumm (1843-1864), Corporal, Co. A, 60th OVI, first cousin 3 times removed. Burial unknown unknown.
We usually spend some time at local cemeteries on Memorial Day, taking time to observe the U.S. flags, flower memorials, and other patriotic memorials, and to reflect on the sacrifices made by our veterans for our freedom.
The National Moment of Remembrance resolution, passed, in December 2000, asks all Americans to pause at 3:00 p.m. local time and reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day, to remember and honor the lives of those who served.
Let us never forget the sacrifices made by our veterans.
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Thank you Karen and God bless you
Author
Thank you.
Remember Carey, Bill, and Ben who never made it back from Vietnam Nam.
And Keith who could not unsee what he saw
Our choir will sing a memorial and member able hymn Sunday. I will play taps at a few gravesites.
Author
Yes, it is important to always remember them. Your memorial service sounds very nice and great that you will play taps. Great to hear from you and thanks for writing.