Memorial Day 2011.

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DColquhoun

May 29, 2011

Memorial Day was first designated on 30 May, 1868. The following is excerpted from General Orders No. 11; Grand Army of the Republic:

We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance. All that the consecrated wealth and taste of the nation can add to their adornment and security, is but a fitting tribute to the memory of her slain defenders. Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors and fond mourners. Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic.

If other eyes grow dull and other hands slack, and other hearts cold in the solemn trust, ours shall keep it well as long as the light and warmth of life remain in us.

Let us, then, at the time appointed, gather around their sacred remains, and garland the passionless mounds above them with choicest flowers of springtime; let us raise above them the dear old flag they saved; let us in this solemn presence renew our pledge to aid and assist those whom they have left among us a sacred charge upon the Nation's gratitude—the soldier's and sailor's widow and orphan.

II. It is the purpose of the Commander in Chief to inaugurate this observance with the hope that it will be kept up from year to year, while a survivor of the war remains to honor the memory of his departed comrades. He earnestly desires the public press to call attention to this Order, and lend its friendly aid in bringing it to the notice of comrades in all parts of the country in time for simultaneous compliance therewith.

III. Department commanders will use every effort to make this Order effective.

It remains for those of us, the living, to guard the memories of the fallen who gave their last full measure at places like Lexington, Cowpens, Manassas, Gettysburg, San Juan Hill, Flanders, the Ardenne, Bastogne, Iwo Jima, Coral Sea, Khe Sahn, Baghdad, Fallujah, and countless others that most will never know. So on this Memorial Day celebrate with family and friends, and worship as you choose. But never forget that the freedom's we enjoy were purchased at a cost that cannot be replaced. They are your grandfathers, fathers, husbands, sons and daughters. They answered duty's call, never complained, and gave more than can ever be repaid. So this Memorial Day, steal a quiet moment and remember. And if you should meet up with a veteran, a simple thanks will be much appreciated.

"Here Rests In Honored Glory An American Soldier Known But To God"