Displaced Beachbums

National Memorial Day, which was originally known as “Decoration Day”, was first observed on May 30, 1868. Today, Memorial Day is more celebrated as a holiday than what the occasion was originally meant to be. When people say “Happy Memorial Day” to me, I feel awkward and silent because I have no idea how to gracefully tell them how inappropriate the “happy” sentiment is.  I understand when someone says it ~ it is, after all, a day off for them and no doubt they will enjoy their day off. I know they mean no harm but what flashes through my mind is the ultimate sacrifice military men and women have made and the aftermath of their loss ~ the families left behind.

We must remember Memorial Day is set aside to honor of America’s military personnel who lost their lives in wars past and present. 

General John Logan (FG loves that name), dedicated this day to decorate the graves of the American Civil War dead. As time went on, it encompassed all those who sacrificed their lives for their nation, from the Revolutionary War to the present. In 1971, the “day” was changed from May 30th to the last Monday of May. 

Because Memorial Day was losing its importance in the minds of younger generations, the President made a proclamation in 2004 which gives a tangible action for people to do on Memorial day. The proclamation states…

…Today, all who wear the uniform of the United States are serving at a crucial hour in history, and each has answered a great call to serve our Nation on the front lines of freedom. As we continue to fight terrorism and promote peace and freedom-, let us pray for the safety and strength of our troops, for God’s blessing on them and their families, and for those who have lost loved ones. On this Memorial Day, we honor all of our fallen soldiers, their commitment to our country, and their legacy of patriotism and sacrifice. By giving their lives in the cause of freedom, these heroes have protected and inspired all Americans.

In respect for their devotion to America, the Congress, by a joint resolution approved on May 11, 1950, as amended (64 Stat. 158), has requested the President to issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe each Memorial Day as a day of prayer for permanent peace and designating a period on that day when the people of the United States might unite in prayer. The Congress, by Public Law 106-579, has also designated the minute beginning at 3:00 p.m. local time on that day as a time for all Americans to observe the National Moment of Remembrance.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Memorial Day, May 31, 2004, as a day of prayer for permanent peace, and I designate the hour beginning in each locality at 11:00 a.m. of that day as a time to unite in prayer. I also ask all Americans to observe the National Moment of Remembrance beginning at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day. I urge the press, radio, television, and all other media to participate in these observances.

I also request the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff until noon on this Memorial Day on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels throughout the United States, and in all areas under its jurisdiction and control. I also request the people of the United States to display the flag at half-staff from their homes for the customary forenoon period.

Please take time out of your day to honor all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. May we never forget…