Memorial Day

Memorial Day

Topic Author: Keith Cavey

Posted: 1:22 PM May 23, 2009

Replies Posted: 5 comments

Save

Recent Blog Topics

The Memorial Day weekend is considered the unofficial start of summer. It's a time that many families take road trips or just spend time together to enjoy the three-day weekend. But all too often, I feel that a lot of people - myself included - forget what this holiday is really about: remembering the men and women who have given their lives in service of this country.

A little history lesson for you: Memorial Day was originally known as "Decoration Day" - so called because when it was proclaimed a holiday by General John Logan in 1868, it was created with the purpose of decorating the grave sites of those soldiers who had died in defense of the Union during the Civil War. Many of the southern states did not recognize this holiday, but instead held a similar observance on a different day for Confederate soldiers. The term "Memorial Day" was first used in 1882, and the holiday was expanded to observe American casualties of all wars after World War I. Memorial Day gained more widespread recognition after World War II and was officially declared a federal holiday in 1967. A few years later, Memorial Day was moved from its traditional May 30th date to the last Monday in May in order to create a convenient three-day weekend for federal employees. There are still many people and organizations who advocate moving Memorial Day back to its traditional May 30th observance.

With all of the outdoor activities, barbecues, road trips, and weekend sales that are planned for this three-day weekend, I think it's easy for us to forget why we celebrate this holiday. We in Central Texas should be especially mindful of the ongoing sacrifices of the brave men and women who serve our country to ensure the freedoms and lifestyle we enjoy on this holiday weekend, many of whom are based at Fort Hood. So as you go about your weekend plans, be mindful of why you have this three-day weekend. Traditionally, there is a national moment of remembrance at 3:00 pm local time. At the very least, take that moment to honor those who have died in defense of this country, and be grateful toward those who continue to serve.

Here's part of the original Decoration Day order made by General John Logan in 1868:

The 30th day 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 or ceremony is prescribed, but Posts and comrades will, in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.

We are organized, Comrades, as our regulations tell us, for the purpose among other things, "of preserving and strengthening those kind and fraternal feelings which have bound together the soldiers sailors and Marines, who united to suppress the late rebellion." What can aid more to assure this result than by cherishing tenderly the memory of our heroic dead? We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance. All that the consecrated wealth and taste of the nation can add to their adornment and security, is but a fitting tribute to the memory of her slain defenders. Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors and fond mourners. Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic.

If other eyes grow dull and other hands slack, and other hearts cold in the solemn trust, ours shall keep it well as long as the light and warmth of life remain in us.

Let us, then, at the time appointed, gather around their sacred remains, and garland the passionless mounds above them with choicest flowers of springtime; let us raise above them the dear old flag they saved; let us in this solemn presence renew our pledge to aid and assist those whom they have left among us a sacred charge upon the Nation's gratitude—the soldier's and sailor's widow and orphan.

Post Your Comments

Posted by: Sheila Location: Killeen/Ft. Hood
As a proud wife of a great soldier, a proud great-granddaughter of a great marine, and a proud sister of a great salior. Keith,this is the best blog that you did thank you, we really do need to thank our men and women (current and retired)military for their remarkable service to our country and we also need to remember the men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice to fight for our country

Posted by: Linda Location: Marlin
Keith we all need to be reminded why we have Memorial Day. As I have become older it is no longer just a 3 day weekend to spend on the lake. I remember why I can live so safely and our Court House here in Marlin is beautiful with all the American Flags sounding the entire court house building.

Posted by: Citizen Location: Texas
As a VietNam Vet. who was spit on in the San Francisco Airport on my way back home in San Antonio, I appreciate your blog for the friends I left behind.

Posted by: Lon Location: KWTX
Excellent, Keith!

Posted by: Katie Location: Clifton
Well said Keith. Bravo!

FSR/Call Center - Genco Federal Credit Union is currently seeking a full time Financial Service Representative for their call center. We offer great benefits and a friendly work environment. If you enjoy working with customers and possess a strong work ethic, we're looking for you!

Also, take a look at the most recent jobs posted to Job Board TV at KWTX.com:

View More Jobs.

Submit your photos or videos by clicking on the photo. Share your pictures and videos with Central Texas.