In my youth, the holiday we celebrate this weekend was known as Decoration Day, which started in 1861 when a bouquet was placed on a Civil War veteran’s grave and continued as America paid homage and tribute to the men and women who paid the ultimate price in defense of America by “decorating” or placing flowers on the graves of fallen heroes.
The name was changed to Memorial Day and became a federal holiday in 1971.
America has lost over one million in our combined wars, and, by whatever name, it is appropriate and noble that we should set aside a day to honor their memory, their service and their sacrifice.
To be a true patriot, at least in my opinion, we must appreciate the terrible price our country and its people have paid to become the greatest nation the world has ever known, and we must acknowledge and honor all those who have served in our military and pay special tribute to the ones who gave their all.