Each year, in the United States, the last Monday of May is celebrated as Memorial Day, a day to remember the sacrifice of those who have given all for the sake of our country. Originally called Decoration Day, this observance began in 1868 as a day to decorate the graves of those who were killed in the Civil War. After World War I ended, these remembrances were expanded to include all those who fell in any American war.
Memorial Day was officially declared a national holiday by Congress in 1971, and placed on the last Monday in May each year. It is a day that many use to visit cemeteries and graveyards, honoring those who have served. Since it includes an additional day off for many Americans, other traditions have grown up around the weekend, including cookouts, float trips, and much more.
It is good to be reminded of the sacrifice that many have given to ensure our freedom. In honor of Memorial Day, here are a couple of statements made by past Presidents of the United States.
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter the words, but to live by them.” — John F. Kennedy
“Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt
“For love of country they accepted death, and thus resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism and their virtue.” — James A. Garfield
“Honor to the soldier and sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country’s cause. Honor, also, to the citizen who cares for his brother in the field and serves, as he best can, the same cause.” — Abraham Lincoln
“Our obligations to our country never cease but with our lives.” — John Adams
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of those who have lost loved ones defending the American Way.
If you are interested in finding out more about Memorial Day, here are a few resources: