05/26/08 Memorial Day

It is hard to believe that it is time once again to celebrate Memorial Day. It is also hard to believe that there are a lot of people out there that do not know the real meaning behind this national holiday. Sadly, Memorial Day, formerly known as Decoration Day, has turned into nothing more than an excuse for another long weekend in which to party and overindulge. This holiday originated to commemorate U.S. men and women who died in military service, beginning with Union soldiers in the American Civil War. In addition to honoring service men and women the holiday expanded to honor and remember all loved ones who had died. So this Memorial Day in addition to the family barbeque, picnics and sporting events, take a moment to remember those who gave their lives in service to their country, also firemen and police officers who gave their lives in the line of duty in your community. As one of this nation's greatest presidents Abraham Lincoln once said, "Any nation that does not honor its heroes will not long endure."