5.29.23 – A Memorial Day Tribute

Monday, May 29, 2023

Memorial Day began a few years after the Civil War, in 1868. An organization of Union veterans established the holiday, originally called Decoration Day, as a time to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers.

Early records from historians show that one of the first Memorial Day traditions was held in Charleston, South Carolina, to celebrate the surrender of the Confederacy. It was organized by formerly enslaved people who celebrated their freedom and paid respects to the fallen soldiers who fought in the four-year-long war.

In 1882, the name was changed from Decoration Day to Memorial Day. However, it was not until 1967 that the name became official by federal law.

Congress passed the National Moment of Remembrance Act on December 28, 2000, to remember and renew the legacy of Memorial Day. It also pays tribute to individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States and their families.

Today and every day, we honor all who have died in service to our country. Our freedom came at the expense of the brave heroes who lost their lives fighting to protect it.