Title: “All gave some, Some gave all.”
Original CoS Document (slug): all-gave-some-some-gave-all
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Created: 2022-05-18 11:22:41
Updated: 2024-05-25 18:48:38
Published: 2022-05-18 01:00:00
Converted: 2025-04-14T21:17:11.832129745
The History of Memorial Day by Van Warren Walter Oklahoma VCD Team
The tradition of Memorial Day, which dates back to pre-Civil War times, holds a significant place in our history. While there are no official records, the first instance of a Civil War soldier's grave being decorated with flowers was on June 3rd, 1861, in Warrenton, Virginia. This day, known as Decoration Day, marked the beginning of a practice that would be celebrated in cemeteries at various times of the year.
On Decoration Day, people would gather to decorate fallen soldiers’ graves with wreaths and flowers. During the Civil War, 1861-1865, 850,000 lives were lost. This day helped to heal the North and the South. It was an accepted day to mourn and remember the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The term Memorial Day was first used in May 1882. However, it was not widely used until after WWII. In 1968, Congress decided to pass a law. The Uniform Monday Holiday Act combined four Decoration Days and moved them to the last Monday in May.
Today, the last Monday in May, is Memorial Day. The entire nation remembers those who gave their lives for this nation. We celebrate with parades, picnics, and visiting and decorating graves.
One of the most poignant events of Memorial Day is the placing of wreaths at the tombs of the unknown soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. This solemn ceremony, which I have had the privilege to witness, brings a sense of reverence and respect. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by these unknown men, a reminder that brings tears to the eyes of many, especially veterans who understand the true cost of freedom.
Remember this quote, “All gave some, Some gave all.”
Celebrate Memorial Day wherever you live.