What Happened To Memorial Day?

There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War. Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.

Traditional observance of Memorial day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. What may be needed to return the solemn, sacred spirit back to Memorial Day is for a return to its traditional day of observance. Many feel when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend in 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day. The Day is probably more associated with the Indy 500 than with honoring those who have died in service.

We, as Rotarians, and as residents in Central Texas, have a deeper appreciation of Memorial Day and observe the sacrifice and dedication of our uniformed men and women. As Rotarians, we strive to make a difference in the lives of others. We must remember those who served in order to allow us to be able to make that difference.