... from the Spring 2008 issue

Memorial Day evolves from Civil War observance

By Harriet Lovseth, Sioux Falls, S.D.

We can’t be sure when or where Memorial Day was first observed, but it is generally believed that the holiday originated during or shortly after the Civil War, when women in the South honored the dead of both the Union and Confederate armies.

In 1868, Maj. Gen. John Logan, commander in chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, specified May 30 as a special day for honoring the graves of Union soldiers. The Grand Army was responsible for memorial services in the northern states for many years, and the American Legion took over this duty after World War I. The holiday gradually expanded to honor those who died in the Spanish-American War, the two World Wars, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

In 1971, a federal law making Memorial Day a legal holiday finally went into effect.

On Memorial Day, fraternal groups march in military parades and take part in special programs. Members of the Armed Forces who died at sea are also honored with special ceremonies. Services sometimes include tiny ships filled with flowers and set afloat on the water in the harbor. In Easton, Pa., a float filled with flowers made by local high school students is set afloat each year. Since World War I, Memorial Day has also been known as Poppy Day, when ex-servicemen sell small, artificial poppies to help disabled veterans.

Over the years, Memorial Day has become a day to remember all those who have passed away – military and nonmilitary alike. Cemeteries all over the country come alive with flowers brought by family members and friends to honor those who have passed away.

The main theme of the day, however, is the military. On May 30, local guard units honor our fallen heroes with programs, gun salutes and a vow to never forget the brave men and women who fought to keep our country free. ~BH