In modern America, the true meaning of Memorial Day is often lost in picnics and holidays weekends marking the beginning of summer. But this day is an important reminder to remember, and honor, those who died serving their nation in times of war.
In 1868, General John A. Logan, the commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization for Union Civil War veterans, issued General Order No. 11, creating a national day of remembrance: “The 30th 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 of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit”
After World War I, Memorial Day observances began to honor the dead of all the wars in which Americans fought. In 1971, Congress declared the last Monday in May to be a national holiday. At national cemeteries, flags are placed on each grave. There are ceremonies across the nation at cemeteries and memorials, honoring those who sacrificed their lives for their country.
