May 31, 2008

Memorial day honors ultimate sacrifice for freedom

By Bill Highlander
Editor

The first official observance of decorating the graves of soldiers killed in battle was 140 years ago. Decoration Day was May 30, 1868 at Arlington Cemetery in Virginia after General John A. Logan issued General Order 11 to strew flowers to decorate the graves of soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their Country.

Ceremonies throughout the country primarily recognized the fallen soldiers from the Civil War. After World War I, the holiday was expanded to honor all who died in American wars. In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day as a national holiday to be observed on the last Monday in May.

Observance of Memorial Day was held at Golden Gate National Ceremony in San Bruno, CA. Photos by Joe Proudman

The President of the United States participates in a wreath laying ceremony each Memorial Day ay the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. Traditionally, small American flags are placed on each veteran’s grave.

Since the Revolutionary War, more than one million people have died in America’s wars, and military personnel are engaged in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan today in a war against terrorism.

Political and community leaders take part in the annual program of honoring those interred at Oak Hill Memorial Park in San Jose. The United Veterans Council hosts one of the largest observances in the Bay area as more than 30 military affiliated groups participate. Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts place flags on the veterans’ graves.