By Leslie King O’Neal
Honoring Those Who Made The Ultimate Sacrifice
Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.” — Harry S. Truman, 33rd U.S. President, 1945
History of Memorial Day
Originally known as “Decoration Day,” the holiday we now celebrate as “Memorial Day” began shortly after the Civil War. Starting around 1868, communities around the country paid tribute to and decorated the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags. Traditionally celebrated on May 30, in 1968 Congress passed legislation changing the holiday’s observance to the last Monday in May. Unlike Veteran’s Day, which honors all veterans, Memorial Day honors those who served and died in U.S. military service.
Honoring Veterans–Wounded Warrior Project
Memorial Day is more than a “beginning of summer” beach and barbecue holiday. It’s a time to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and to reflect on their bravery and courage.[i] One way to honor veterans is through the Wounded Warrior Project®. “Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) is the nation’s leading veterans service organization, focused on the total well-being of post-9/11 veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. Our programs, advocacy, and awareness efforts help warriors thrive, provide essential lifelines to families and caregivers, and prevent veteran suicides.” https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/
National Moment of Remembrance
To ensure the solemn purpose of the holiday is not lost to leisure and sales events, Congress passed a law designating 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day as an official minute of silence and reflection. This is an opportunity to be grateful for the sacrifices of our fallen heroes and to commit ourselves to the values they fought for.
[i] Source for this post: https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/What-is-Memorial-Day-Facts-Meaning-and-History
Leave a Reply