"Memorial Day was first celebrated on May 30, 1868. It was observed by placing flowers on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers during the first national celebration. Gen. James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, after which around 5,000 participants helped to decorate the graves of the more than 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers who were buried there.
Three years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30. This date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country.
The alternative name of “Memorial Day” was first used in 1882. It did not become more common until after World War II, and was not declared the official name by Federal law until 1967. On June 28, 1968, the United States Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill, which moved three holidays from their traditional dates to a specified Monday in order to create a convenient three-day weekend. The holidays included Washington’s Birthday, now celebrated as Presidents’ Day; Veterans Day and Memorial Day. The change moved Memorial Day from its traditional May 30 date to the last Monday in May. The law took effect at the federal level in 1971."
http://frontpagemag.com/2010/05/31/what-is-memorial-day/
Today I would like to thank those who gave their lives, all who have served in the past and those who currently serve plus a huge thank you to all their families and loved ones!
Click on each of the items in the treasury below to be taken to the shop of a military person or a family member of someone who has served in the military.
Thank You
VE
7 comments:
Thanks so much for including my photo pendant :)
This is beautiful, VE, thanks so much for this post!
Wonderful post VE. I too tear up when I hear "Taps" played.
My father is a WWII vet and I was so proud of him when he stood in church yesterday to be honored along with all the other vets and military personnel.
Secret: My father and VE's father is the same person. :)
What a wonderful post. I get so emotional when I think of the sacrifices made by people that don't even know me, in order that I can live free. All the patriotic songs just touch my heart.
A very heartfelt thank you to all those that have served and the sacrifices made by all.
Great post VE!
Thank you so much, and thank you for including my earrings! <3 Great post!
wonderful VE. Great job, I always thank all who have served....being married to a Vet I sometimes have to remember to thank him everyday :)
This year more than ever it seems we have to thank them all ever so much. Great post VE!
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