Memorial Day was celebrated several weeks ago, but it is appropriate to offer some history of this holiday and some reflection. First celebrated to remember Civil War dead, Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day with its basis in the placement of flags on the graves of that war’s dead. On May 5, 1868, it was officially proclaimed by General John Logan, then commander of the Grand Army of the Republic. The first observance of Decoration Day was May 30, 1868. New York was the first state to recognize the day as a holiday. Not all states, especially the states of the former Confederacy, recognized the day until it was changed after World War I as a remembrance of any American killed in any war. Ironically, the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient, Lt. John W. Finn from World War I, died May 27, 2010. Some remember that it was called Decoration Day and still call it that today. For most of the Twentieth Century, most southern states had their own holiday that celebrated only the Confederate war dead. It was not until Congress enacted the National Holiday Act of 1971 did all states recognize it when it was changed to the last Monday in May, thus ensuring a three-day weekend celebration.

It seems that Memorial Day has diminished in its importance over the years. Today, many people seem to think of it only as a three-day weekend off from work, a time of special sales, and an opportunity to hold cookouts. The solemnity of this day seems to have vanished from the minds of some Americans amid the sales circulars and the smoke of the barbecue grill. Now it marks the “official” start of summer. Even with the military still serving and suffering casualties in two wars, paying tribute to those that defended, and those that still defend, the country is not what it should be. Some would wager that if you asked ten people on the street why Memorial Day is celebrated, many would not know the correct reason.

Our state has a long record of men and women serving their country, including 663 Congressional Medal of Honor recipients, seven of whom were awarded the medal twice, two from the war in Iraq. This year in Harrison, the day was commemorated with a parade and a ceremony at the monuments in Riis Park. All branches of the military were represented. About a dozen or so World War II veterans attended, snapping to attention as the National Anthem was sung. 2010 is the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II. The United States loses many World War II veterans each year, with the Veterans Administration estimating that about 1,200 die each day.

The speeches were all causes for reflection. It was interesting to see the World War II veterans, many of them moving a bit slower now, contrasted with the youth of the Marine corporal who spoke and his fellow Marines in the honor guard. Already a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, his short speech served as a reminder to those present that there are still men and women standing watch to protect us. Seeing these young men can only make everyone proud to be an American. It is clear that the tradition of men and women defending our country, protecting our freedoms, and paying the ultimate sacrifice continues. We must never forget that sacrifice. It is important to make sure our children and future generations always remember and honor those who serve. In fact, it is not just something important to do, it is our duty to do it.