Linda's World

Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan.  It was first officially observed on May 30th of that same year.  On that date, 140 years ago...flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.   It was a day to honor those men and women who gave the supreme sacrifice in the service of our country, for the many freedoms we enjoy today. It's reason remains the same today. 

It wasn't until 1971 that it became a National holiday and was set up to be observed on the last Monday of May.  

I'm afraid that today, it's become a three day weekend to party, go camping, BBQ and take advantage of the Memorial Day sales at the local mall.   I wonder if today's high school students or even college students know the true meaning of this holiday? 

Please take a moment with your families to stop and give thanks to all those who have given the supreme sacrifice for the many freedoms we enjoy. 

And I want to say thank you to all those who have served and are serving in our armed forces today.  Most have done this on a volunteer basis because they believe in what this country stands for.  I know we have our faults...but like humans...no country is perfect. 

                                 God Bless America !

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• #9 Comment from wwfbison 
  5/27/08 11:50 AM | Permalink

  A truly lovely entry Linda.  I agree with you on the fact that so many of our younger citizens just look at it as a party weekend when it means so very much more.  You said it very well.
  Lisa
• #8 Comment from buggieboo1 
  5/26/08 5:27 AM | Permalink

  Happy Memorial Day!!!
  
  Hope you have a great day!!!!
  
  
  Sharon
• #7 Comment from mariealicejoan 
  5/25/08 10:25 PM | Permalink

  Most holidays today are nothing more than a three day holiday binge to most people.  I'm not sure how that happened.  They used to be marked in schools by special assemblies. I don't think schools are allowed to do so any longer, them being politically incorrect and all.  I think we can blame Political Correctness for the loss of a lot of our standards and traditions.
  Marie
  http://ayearatoakcottage.blogspot.com/
• #6 Comment from jjdolfin9 
  5/25/08 8:46 PM | Permalink

  Very nice entry Linda.  Being from a military family and having served myself, Memorial Day is a special day to me.
  Hugs, Joyce
• #5 Comment from sdoscher458 
  5/25/08 6:56 PM | Permalink

  It scares me sometimes the way history is being taught, the kids do not seem to absorb the meaning of history or understand how we are where we are. With my kids, they were all readers thank God, I made sure they had a full knowledge of just how their forefathers fought, won and died for them and their futures...love, Sandi