Remembering Our Heroes
A Brief History of Memorial Day
While the long weekend often ushers in summer fun, Memorial Day is dedicated to honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.
In the aftermath of the Civil War, a desire to honor fallen soldiers arose across the United States. Local communities held their own remembrance ceremonies, with freed slaves in Charleston being some of the first to commemorate Union soldiers.
Building on these local traditions, General John A. Logan, leader of a Union veterans group, declared a national Decoration Day in 1868. This day, May 30th, was chosen for its neutrality, not coinciding with any specific Civil War battle. The focus was on decorating graves with flowers, a tradition that stuck.
Though some states quickly recognized Decoration Day as a holiday, it wasn't until after World War I that it became a more inclusive day of remembrance, honoring American military personnel who died in all wars. Finally, in 1971, Congress established Memorial Day as a national holiday on the last Monday of May.
Here are some ways we can continue to honor them:
Visit a local veteran's cemetery: You can still visit a cemetery in the coming days and place a flag on a grave, or leave a small token of respect.
Volunteer your time: Many veterans' organizations welcome volunteers throughout the year. You can find opportunities online or by contacting your local chapter.
Donate to a worthy cause: Consider supporting a charity that assists veterans and their families.
Express your gratitude: Even a simple "thank you" to a veteran you know can make a difference.
Every act, big or small, shows our appreciation for the freedoms we hold dear.
Wishing you a week filled with reflection and a renewed sense of gratitude.