Memorial Day, 2022 is officially observed on May 30, Monday.
This national holiday was established to honor those who have died in American wars. Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day. It originated during the American Civil War, when flowers were placed on the graves of those who had been killed in battle. The honoring was renamed Memorial Day, and expanded to include all who have died in battle.
Born in 1888, my great-grandma remained true to the name of “Decoration Day”. In her mind, this name already included all fallen War heroes. It was the duty and privilege of Americans living in freedom to decorate the resting places of soldiers. It was the way to show respect and gratitude for their sacrifice.
The day before Decoration Day, bouquets were prepared. It all depended on the whims of the weather, what flowers would be blooming and nice enough to be chosen as part of the cemetery decorations. Peonies, iris, early phlox, spirea, buttercups and poppies, a few roses were among the hoped-for blossoms gathered from her garden. Great-grandpa helped with gathering the many blooms.
Once the flowers were cut, they were piled on the grass beside a bucket of water and fruit jar vases. On her hands and knees, Grandma selected blooms and arranged a bouquet, poured in a couple of inches of water and set the bouquet aside. This went on until a couple dozen or more vases were ready to go to the cemeteries.
Grandpa drove the car up to the back door and started loading the back seat with the bouquets, rags to wipe down the grave markers, and an extra bucket.
Still pinning on her hat, Grandma climbed into the front seat beside Grandpa. The back seat was full of bouquets as they drove off to fulfill the solemn ceremony of Decoration Day. Tomorrow, the cemetery would be bright with many flowers. The graves would be beautifully decorated by family and friends wishing to remember their loved ones, as well as to express appreciation for America’s freedom.
On Memorial Day, we remember those who fought and died to secure our freedom. In that moment, we honor the sacrifices of the past to make our present and our future possible
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