150th ANNIVERSARY OF MEMORIAL DAY

May 2016 represents the 150th anniversary of Memorial Day celebrations in the United States. According to history.com, 50-years ago the federal government designated Waterloo, New York as the birthplace of Memorial Day.

Source, waterloony.com

Previously, the day was known as Decoration Day—a day when people decorated the graves of soldiers with flags and flowers.

It is a sad irony that the defense of freedom from aggression too often involves the loss of personal freedom when soldiers lose their lives.

Henri-Chapelle American Cemetery Belgium, G Sutton 2007

Parades include veterans who offer a living memorial of those no longer among us.

Today we also remember others who have died. Amidst the celebrations and parties, it’s good to remember that freedom adds meaning to life and death.

In the U.S., 3:00 p.m. local time is the official time of remembrance.

My website www.suttong.com

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