Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died while in our nation's service. Officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, it was first observed on May 30, 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. By 1890, all the northern states officially recognized the holiday.
Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan. It is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. It was first observed on May 30, 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery to honor fallen soldiers of the Civil War. Traditional observance of Memorial Day has diminished over the years. Many Americans have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day.
That's right; the last Monday in May is already upon us. Memorial Day marks the unofficial start to summer. All the kids should be out of school (or just about there), swimming pools are set to open, and your friendly MCPL branches will be closed all day on Monday, May 28th.
Memorial Day is a holiday filled with reflection, flags, and flowers. It honors our fallen heroes: women and men who gave lives for the freedom we hold dear.
This Memorial Day, consider walking in the boots of those who know the sacrifices of a soldier. Consider these books and others.
What do Macon and Columbus, Georgia; Richmond, Virginia; Boalsburg, Pennsylvania; and Carbondale, Illinois have in common? They, along with approximately 25 other places, claim to be the origin of Decoration Day, now known as Memorial Day.
