MEMORIAL DAY... at time to remember

Next weekend Americans across the country will be celebrating Memorial Day with picnics, get-togethers and kicking off summertime at pools, backyards and BBQs. Good times will be shared as people relax enjoying grilled meats, cold beers and picnic dishes with family and friends. People will be wearing red, white and blue ( Foot Traffic socks , we hope!) and hanging the American flag. Although we enjoy the fun weekend holiday, is our most sobering federal holiday. Memorial Day is a time to remember the fallen men and women who have lost their lives in battle. For decades, Memorial Day was celebrated on May 30 and originally honored only those lost fighting in the Civil War. Over 620,000 soldiers died on both sides, half dying of disease. This total is more than casualties of all other wars combined. Formally known as Decoration Day, soldiers would decorate graves of their fallen comrades with flowers, flags and wreaths. However, following WW1, the day was expanded to honor all fallen soldiers. In 1967, Federal law declared "Memorial Day" the official name and in 1971, the day was officially changed to the last Monday in May to ensure a 3-day weekend. It has become the kickoff weekend to summer. Did you know that in December 2000, Congress passed a law requiring Americans to pause at 3:00 local time on Memorial Day to remember and honor the fallen? This law was signed by President Clinton. I am guilty of not knowing this and will try my best to remember to honor this law. I know for sure I will take time to honor the flag, a tangible reminder and that there is a cost to the privileges that Americans have, no matter what our political views are. I look at Memorial Day as a time to honor the past, respect the present, and hope for the future. Have a wonderful, safe holiday weekend and thank you to all that are serving our country!