"Any nation that does not honor its heroes will not long endure." - Abraham Lincoln
Did you know that the Memorial Day celebration hails back to the Civil War? First called Decoration Day because of the commitment to decorate the graves of our fallen soldiers, the name Memorial Day became more widespread following World War II possibly because more people had more connections to fallen heroes.
In 1968 Congress decided to change many national holidays by giving them a three day observance in the National Holidays Bill thereby moving their commemorative date to the Monday of the week instead of the traditional calendar day. It is possible this act made Americans more aware of the freedoms they have received. Thanks to the sacrifices of others, they are free to barbecue with their family or participate in recreational activities with friends on national holidays, secure in the knowledge that our nation is protected by a strong military.
That is why it is especially important that service organizations like Optimist Clubs help our communities recmember the importance of Memorial Day by recognizing our fallen soldiers with our thanks and praise. One club that does so is the Optimist Club of McCall, Idaho. Thanks to the Optimist Club, this small resort town gives thanks by proudly displaying the US Flag throughout town. They sent the accompanying pictures for all to enjoy.
Please take a few moments to remember our fallen heroes and to give thanks to our servicemen and women in your own way. And next year, encourage your Optimist Club to make a commitment to recognize our fallen soldiers in a traditional manner, with decorations.
