Memorial Day is soon upon us. Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May. It was formerly known as Decoration Day and commemorates all men and women, who have died in military service for the United States. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day and it is traditionally seen as the start of the summer.
Memorial Day started as an event to honor Union soldiers, who had died during the American Civil War. It was inspired by the way people in the Southern states honored their dead. After World War I, it was extended to include all men and women, who died in any war or military action.
Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day. The current name for this day did not come into use until after World War II. Decoration Day and then Memorial Day used to be held on May 30, regardless of the day of the week, on which it fell. In 1968, the Uniform Holidays Bill was passed as part of a move to use federal holidays to create three-day weekends. This meant that, from 1971, Memorial Day holiday has been officially observed on the last Monday in May. However, it took a longer period for all American states to recognize the new date.
Knowing why a day is celebrated gives more meaning to the actions we take towards it. I am veteran of the Gulf War and I ask you to honor our fallen men and women who served and gave their lives so that freedom may reign in all parts of the world. If you know a family that has lost someone in a war, honor them for the sacrifice they made in allowing their loved ones to serve.
To my fallen brothers and sisters “Semper Fi” and to their families, i say thank you for the honor of allowing to serve with your son, husband, wife and other members of your family.
My Thoughts Expressed 
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