Opinion Pieces

An Insight Into …….. Memorial Day

May 30, 2005  

As the Civil War was coming to a close in the spring of 1865, Women's Auxiliaries of the North and South moved from providing relief to the families and soldiers on their own sides to joining in efforts to preserve and decorate the graves of both sides.  In 1868, General John A. Logan, first commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, issued a General Order establishing May 30 as an official memorial day to pay respect to those soldiers who had died in the War.   

In his proclamation, General Logan stated:  "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 [all]…will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit."

Originally called Decoration Day, in 1882 the name was changed to Memorial Day and soldiers who had died in previous wars were honored as well.   In 1971, along with other holidays, President Richard Nixon declared Memorial Day a federal holiday to be observed on the last Monday in May.

Cities and towns all around the United States hold their own ceremonies on Memorial Day to pay respect to the men and women who have died in the service of their country.  In most communities, veterans march to the local cemetery, followed by the townspeople, where they decorate the graves of those who have served in the military.

Memorial Day is celebrated at Arlington National Cemetery each year with a special ceremony in which a small American flag is placed on each grave and the President or Vice President lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

For many, Memorial Day has become a day for personal remembrance.  Families and individuals honor the memories of their loved ones.  Church services, visits to the cemetery, flowers on graves or even silent tribute mark the day with dignity and solemnity.  It is a day of reflection.  It also signals the beginning of summer in the U.S. with a three-day weekend to spend with friends and family!