Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day for Americans to honor our fallen soldiers.  Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 and first observed May 30, 1868.  It is always observed on the last Monday in May each year.

Memorial Day was first used to honor the fallen Union soldiers of the American Civil War, however, after WWI it was extended to honor all wars fought by American military.  Celebrations began with women decorating the graves of soldiers who had died while at war.

In December of 2000, the “National Moment of Remembrance” resolution was passed.  The resolution asks Americans “To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to ‘Taps” at 3:00 pm.

Today, the meaning of the holiday can be forgotten by the excitement of a 3 day weekend and the unofficial start of summer.  Although, celebrating by spending time with our loved ones, vacationing, and cook-outs are all good ways to celebrate…let’s always remember the reason for the holiday.  Visit the grave of a soldier, thank a solider or make sure to talk to your children about the brave men and women who serve our country every day.

If you live in the Powder Springs area, please come out to the Powder Springs Library, 4181 Atlanta Street, for a Memorial Day Ceremony.  The keynote speaker will be a 27 year veteran who spent 20 of those years in the Army Special Forces.

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