Celebrating Our Fallen: Memorial Day

Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. This significant day of remembrance originated in the years following the Civil War, a conflict that claimed more lives than any other in U.S. history and necessitated the establishment of the country’s first national cemeteries.?

Originally known as Decoration Day, the holiday was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868, by General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Northern Civil War veterans. He designated May 30, 1868, as a day to decorate the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country, choosing the date specifically because it was not the anniversary of any particular battle.?

On the first Decoration Day, General James Garfield delivered a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, where 5,000 participants decorated the graves of 20,000 Civil War soldiers buried there. Over time, Decoration Day evolved into Memorial Day, and in 1971, it became an official federal holiday.?

This Memorial Day, join us in honoring the legacy and sacrifice of our fallen heroes who gave their lives in service to our nation. Let us remember their courage and dedication by participating in local commemorative events and reflecting on their invaluable contributions to our freedom.