While it was a holiday celebrated this past Monday, today, May 30, marks the date of the original Decoration Day holiday, whose first widespread observance was 150 years ago, back in 1868.
As the earth came alive with flora abundant, people honored those who died in the recent Sectional War by decorating their graves. Eventually, the holiday became Memorial Day, to remember all those who fell in military service to this country.
This tradition has continued for so many years, and for good reason: Our country's existence continues to be supported by sacrifices, especially of those in our military, and most especially of those who make the ultimate sacrifice. Indeed, it is the work of each generation of the US people to continue to uphold this country and the values for which it stands.
For me, Memorial Day weekend is made complete by giving due recognition to the fallen. So every year on the Sunday evening prior, I am in front of the television turned on to PBS, viewing the annual National Memorial Day Concert, a moving tribute to those who have served in the US military, and who died in service. In addition to the fine music, actors share the stories of people who have dealt with the hardships of military service. These stories bring a human face to what Memorial Day is all about.
Over the past few years, I've made a habit of going to Scoville Park on Monday morning, where there is a Memorial Day ceremony held at 9 AM. It includes remarks, prayers, songs, and the solemn pomp of the presentation of the colors and a rifle salute by Oak Park police officers, and taps. These simple, dignified gestures truly bring honor to the occasion. For many years, Virginia Cassin, former Oak Park Village Clerk, served as master of ceremonies, and she marked her final time doing so this past Monday as she plans to move to Minnesota to be closer to her family. All those involved truly do well in making these ceremonies what they are. John Atwood shared some of the stories of local soldiers who served in World War I, which, again, brings a more human touch to the conflicts in which the United States has been involved.
The importance of honoring those who have served throughout the year fosters many charitable efforts: One example is the Wreaths Across America, which seeks to lay a wreath at every grave of all those who have served in the military. It's a fitting tribute, and certainly is in the spirit of Decoration Day, to make such a gesture of honor at the graves.
The World War II Memorial includes a quotation by Harry Truman, which pinpoints so well the essence of this occasion: "Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices." I can only hope that in the midst of the summer traditions often associated with it that the annual Memorial Day holiday serves as a reminder to continue honoring those who served this country by giving of their lives, for another 150 years and beyond. And may such remembrance inspire us to continue in our roles of upholding this country and its profound values.
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