We remember our fallen veterans this weekend and feel a closeness to them, because they were sons and daughters from our homes and towns right here in Wells County, or perhaps from places we may have never heard of or visited, and yet, we feel like we knew them all. They loved the green grass and crops of Indiana, to breathe in the fresh air and literally taste the freedom — just like us. They loved the laughter of children playing safely with little need of concern — just like us. They looked at a starry sky and dreamt of the possibilities their future’s held, a night sky not blurred by the rockets red glare — just like us. They shared the same feelings you and I share about the wonder of nature, the blessings of children, the optimism that comes with each day’s sunrise and satisfaction of each nightfall and the providence of a God who loves us. Yes, we feel like we knew them, because they were just like us. They gave up all the blessings we cherish — trading the green hill for a bunker, the laughter of children for the thunder of gunfire, the starry night sky for the dark shadows of death.
So, while we might not know all their names, we know the least we can do on each Memorial Day is pause from our packed schedules and remember them — what they did and why they did it.
Memorial Day has become such a busy and enjoyable time, it’s easy for us to forget the occasion’s true origins. It’s more than just a day when swimming pools open... more than just a time to fire up the backyard grill... more than time to watch and listen to the Indianapolis 500... more than just another excuse for a three-day weekend. Memorial Day is so much more.
When Memorial Day was first observed on May 30, 1868, there were no “three-day weekends” being celebrated. In fact, it wasn’t a celebration at all, but a somber, tearful and respectful ceremony as thousands of veterans, widows and orphans decorated more than 20,000 graves of the Civil War dead at Arlington Cemetery. It was called “Decoration Day” back then. And the idea was so fitting and proper, so well-received, it quickly spread from community to community.
War is not and has never been convenient. Yet, Memorial Day has been moved from its original stationary spot on the calendar for the sake of convenience. While the true observance was originally to fall on May 30, the National Holiday Act of 1971 deemed it to be on the last Monday in May, so it could become part of a three-day weekend.
But without people willing to serve and sacrifice over these many years, would there be the need for three days of pool openings, cookouts and auto racing? Or would there just be running — running away from tyranny and oppressive governments? Without the efforts of America’s fallen brave warriors, would we still have parades — or just the marching of dictator-ruled armies flexing their muscle and intimidating their citizens?
As we participate in the varied and wonderful celebrations of this Memorial Day, let us remember those who continue to make them all possible by giving the ultimate sacrifice. To all of them, we say today: Yes, we knew you. Yes, we are grateful for your service. And yes, we salute and remember you. May God grant you peace in your rest.
So, while we might not know all their names, we know the least we can do on each Memorial Day is pause from our packed schedules and remember them — what they did and why they did it.
Memorial Day has become such a busy and enjoyable time, it’s easy for us to forget the occasion’s true origins. It’s more than just a day when swimming pools open... more than just a time to fire up the backyard grill... more than time to watch and listen to the Indianapolis 500... more than just another excuse for a three-day weekend. Memorial Day is so much more.
When Memorial Day was first observed on May 30, 1868, there were no “three-day weekends” being celebrated. In fact, it wasn’t a celebration at all, but a somber, tearful and respectful ceremony as thousands of veterans, widows and orphans decorated more than 20,000 graves of the Civil War dead at Arlington Cemetery. It was called “Decoration Day” back then. And the idea was so fitting and proper, so well-received, it quickly spread from community to community.
War is not and has never been convenient. Yet, Memorial Day has been moved from its original stationary spot on the calendar for the sake of convenience. While the true observance was originally to fall on May 30, the National Holiday Act of 1971 deemed it to be on the last Monday in May, so it could become part of a three-day weekend.
But without people willing to serve and sacrifice over these many years, would there be the need for three days of pool openings, cookouts and auto racing? Or would there just be running — running away from tyranny and oppressive governments? Without the efforts of America’s fallen brave warriors, would we still have parades — or just the marching of dictator-ruled armies flexing their muscle and intimidating their citizens?
As we participate in the varied and wonderful celebrations of this Memorial Day, let us remember those who continue to make them all possible by giving the ultimate sacrifice. To all of them, we say today: Yes, we knew you. Yes, we are grateful for your service. And yes, we salute and remember you. May God grant you peace in your rest.
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