Memorial Day
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and
courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God
is with you wherever you go.” —Joshua 1:9 NIV
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 season.
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 that, from 1971, Memorial Day
holiday has been officially observed on the last Monday in May.
Memorial Day is a federal
holiday. All non-essential Government offices are closed, as are schools, businesses
and other organizations. Many people see Memorial Day weekend as an opportunity
to go on a short vacation or visit family or friends.
What are your plans for this
holiday weekend?
Be
blessed and be a blessing!
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