What Does Memorial Day Mean To You?

Memorial Day - like any holiday that falls on a weekend - is nothing more than a 3-day weekend off from work for some people. Since it is the official start of summer, many go camping, have barbeques, plant their garden, picnics, and other assundary things. The real meaning of Memorial Day is brushed aside for watching a major league baseball game or the Indianapolis 500. But...what is the REAL meaning of Memorial Day?

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service, protecting you and I from harm. Memorial Day was originally proclaimed on May 5th, 1868, by General John Logan. This date was chosen because it was NOT the anniversary of a battle. The first Memorial Day observance was May 30th,1868, to commemorate the fallen Union soldiers of the American Civil War. After World War I, it was expanded to include all American war casualties. Graveyards like Arlington National Cemetery and other resting places were decorated with American flags and special services were held to honor these valiant soles. On June 28,1968, the U.S.Congress moved Memorial Day to the last Monday in May. The VFW stated in a 2002 Memorial Day address:
"Changing the date merely to create 3-day weekends has undermined the very
meaning of the day, and has contributed to the general public's nonchalant
observance of Memorial Day"

I saw a picture on my local news channel yesterday which further emphasizes the apathy most people have for this holiday. It was of a parade here in Denver last year where people lined the sidewalks. As a military color guard passed by, the ONLY person who stood and saluted was a war veteran...who was in a wheelchair and had lost a leg and an arm in a battle in Kuwait. Many people today have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day - and that is sad. Many communities have opted to have a town picnic or "games on the Mall" like Brunswick had instead of organizing a parade to honor ALL our defenders. I currently have a great nephew serving his 2nd stint in Iraq. I think how sad he must feel to know that his day to day existence is just a ho-hum deal to many.

Today at 3 pm, all Americans have been asked to pause for a moment of silence. This includes major league ball games, businesses, etc. I hope that for one minute out of this year, people will remember our military keeps the wars on foreign soil where they belong and shake a soldier's hand to thank him for that service.

The disciple, John, says it best in John 15:13:
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends"