Memorial Day History

Today is the observation of Memorial day. By tradition, it's also the historic day itself. Here is a history of Memorial day.

It includes a petition to support bill S 189, a proposal to restory Memorial day to its historic date of May 30th, rather than the last Monday of May in which it has been observed since 1971. Supporters of this bill believe that it will encourage greater recognition and traditional observation of the true meaning of Memorial Day.

What's unfortunate is that such a bill is even required. I'm reminded of the lyrics of that country song: "Have your forgotten?"

Unfortunately, even after 9/11, many in our country act as though they have.

Whatever anyone's opinion of wars in general or the Iraq War/War on Terrorism in particular, the fact remains that we enjoy our freedom by the blood of our fallen servicemen. Memorial day must be more than just another day off to throw barbeques. Honoring the dead is the corellary of that traditional Corporal Work of Mercy, Bury the Dead.

If we do not honor the dead for whom we owe our liberty, exactly how grateful are we for that gift? And if we are not grateful for that gift because we take it for granted, how long can we expect to hold onto it before it is taken away?