Memorial Day: It All Started In The South

Underground USA

Before we get to the politics of the day, I want to mention the difference between Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day, for they are two separate commemorations.

Veterans' Day is a day to thank those who have served in the UD Armed Forces for their service. These are the people who actually made it home and are alive to thank.

Memorial Day is a day to remember and pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service of our country. It honors all military members who have died while serving in the US armed forces in current or previous wars.

The origins of Memorial Day—originally called “Decoration Day”—can be traced back to local observances for soldiers with neglected gravesites during the Civil War. One of the first Decoration Days was held in Columbus, Mississippi, on April 25, 1866, when women decorated the graves of Confederate soldiers who perished in the battle at Shiloh. They decorated them with flowers.

On May 5, 1868, three years after the end of the Civil War, the tradition of placing flowers on veterans’ graves continued with the establishment of Decoration Day by an organization of Union veterans, the Grand Army of the Republic.

The first large-scale observance at Arlington National Cemetary – a land donation by Robert E. Lee’s family – was held on May 30, 1873, with General Ulysses S. Grant presiding.

Until World War I, only Civil War soldiers were honored on this holiday. Now, all Americans who’ve served – and gave the ultimate price – are observed.

It is much more than a day off from work, although that is what it has morphed into for most Americans. It is a day to remember that freedom is not free; that it comes at a price, and that price is paid in blood and sacrifice, both for those commemorated and their families.

The true essence of Memorial Day is not who has the best barbecue or which community has the best fireworks. It is remembering and honoring those who gave their lives in service to our nation.

Then, our segment on America’s Third Watch, broadcast nationally from our flagship station WGUL AM860 & FM93.7 in Tampa, Florida.

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