Today my oldest son (a Major in the U.S. Army) arrived back in the United States after being “over there” after almost 8 months. So I thought it fitting that my first blog post be regarding the upcoming holiday this weekend – Memorial Day.
Here’s a little history that you may or may not have known – or maybe just a little refresher. Excerpts from Wikipedia:
Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May (May 31 in 2010). Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor union soldiers of the American Civil War (it is celebrated near the day of reunification after the Civil War), it was expanded after.
The alternative name of “Memorial Day” was first used in 1882. It did not become more common until after World War II, and was not declared the official name by Federal law until 1967. On June 28, 1968, the United States Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill, which moved three holidays from their traditional dates to a specified Monday in order to create a convenient three-day weekend. The holidays included Washington’s birthday, now celebrated as Presidents’ Day; Veterans Day and Memorial Day. The change moved Memorial Day from its traditional May 30 date to the last Monday in May. The law took effect at the federal level in 1971.
Many people observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. local time. Another tradition is to fly the flag of the United States at half-staff from dawn until noon local time. Volunteers often place American flags on each grave site at National Cemeteries.
The National Memorial Day Concert takes place on the west lawn of the United States Capital. The concert is broadcast on PBS and NPR. Music is performed, and respect is paid to the men and women who gave their lives for their country.
So as I celebrate the lives of the brave men and woman who lost their lives protecting my freedom, I will also be saying many prayers of thanks that my son is home and safe.
Please have a safe and enjoyable weekend and remember our fallen soldiers.
Reneé Marquiss, Realtor
Xena Vallone Realty, Inc.
http://www.BuyandSellSarasota.com
941.807.5950
Buy and Sell Sarasota 