Ushering in summer long before the actual solstice, Memorial Day’s original purpose was more than department-store sales and a three-day weekend. Initially, it honored the soldiers who died in the Civil War, which killed more Americans than any other war in US history. National cemeteries were created for the first time. Popularly known as Decoration Day, it was a time for adorning the graves of servicemen and for parades in their honor.
Later it was expanded to include all the men and women who’ve died in all conflicts in service to this country and became a federal holiday of Memorial Day in 1971.
So as we enjoy the long weekend, let’s also remember to honor those who have fought and died for our democracy.