Happy Memorial Day!
Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day because it was a time set aside to honor the nation’s Civil War dead by decorating their graves.
It was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers, by proclamation of General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of former sailors and soldiers. 
On May 5, 1868, Logan declared in General Order No. 11 that:The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land.
In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.
I am thankful for the men and women who bravely serve our country and to those who have served in the past to secure the freedoms I appreciate today. Thank you to their dear families who have sacrificed much. My heart is deeply touched by those who have been wounded and the families who have lost loved ones. We are truly blessed to live in the United States of America. No matter what challenges we face today, personally or as a nation, you and I can make the choice to face today - and tomorrow - with a grateful heart.
Photos: Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon and Zion Memorial Cemetery, Canby, Oregon
Hi Adrienne, thank you for visiting my blog! Did you get out your oak quilt shelf? I hope you will share a picture with us. :0)
ReplyDeleteKelli
Kelli - I got my oak quilt shelf out of the garage and I need my sweetheart to help me decide if it's going to work on the only wall in my room where it could possibly go. I will share pictures when I've finished whatever I do in there.
ReplyDeleteThanks again for your inspiration.
Adrienne