On May 5, 1868, Logan declared in General Order No. 11 that
The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.
The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.
I've been looking without success for pictures I took as a girl on "Decoration Day" in Columbia NJ. Pretty much the whole town would turn out at the little cemetery across from our small church. Everyone would be carrying small flags, the American Legion would be represented, guns would be shot off, there would be some music, some singing, a prayer or two, and a great deal of respect paid to the graves of those lost in war. It was not a day of picnics, family gathering nor any particular celebration. It was simply a Remembering Day. A day of recalling those lost, now buried at the heart of their hometown.
Everyone would wear a poppy. And to this day, if I see an older gentleman (or sometimes the Ladies' Auxillary) selling those little paper blooms, I am compelled, in their honor, to fork over a dollar.
Don't forget what this day is all about.
Celebrate your family. Enjoy a day off. But say a prayer, and keep a moment just for those who, in obedience, in faithfulness, in dedication, laid down their lives.
No comments:
Post a Comment