In 1971, by congressional decree, Memorial Day was declared a Federal Holiday and was moved from being observed on May 30 to being observed on the last Monday of May for the public’s convenience. At the time this created some controversy and the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization said “Changing the date to create a three-day weekend has undermined the very meaning of the day.”
Was the Veterans of War organization correct, has the meaning of Memorial Day been undermined by the creation of a three day holiday?
I pondered this question after reading a friend’s facebook post, “Please remember those who served and never came home. Memorial Day is a day to honor ALL who served. Not just a party weekend. Thank you!” The statement itself seemed to be more of a plea, my friend had just returned from cleaning and decorating her brother’s gravestone. Ronny died on September 21, 1980 while serving in the US Army overseas. Ronny was 20 years old when he died; he was kind, funny and my favorite babysitter. In 1980 my friend was just 13.
I think the answer is yes, the three day holiday has undermined the meaning. For the average American, Memorial Day is the kickoff to the summer season rather than a day to remember and honor the lives and deaths of soldiers whose sacrifices have made it possible to have a beach picnic or party weekend.
So today if you are not going to a Memorial Day Parade or Memorial Day Cemetery Services, please take a moment to remember those soldiers who have sacrificed their lives, their limbs, or their time for without them we would not be free. Keep in your thoughts their mothers, sisters, brothers, fathers and children. Most importantly teach your children the true meaning of Memorial Day.
UPTON DAILY 