Decoration Day

We should guard their graves with sacred vigilence, all that the consecrated wealth and toils of the nation can add to their adornment and security, is but a fitting tribute to the memory of her slain defenders. Let no wanton foot tread rudely on such halowed grounds. Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent vistors and fond mourners. Let no vandalism of averice, or neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present, or to the coming generations, that we have forgotten, as a people the cost of a free and undivided Republic. If other eyes grow dull, and other hands black, and other hearts cold, in the solemn trust, ours shall keep it well as long as the light, and warmth, of life remain to us. Let us, then, at the time appointed gather around their sacred remains, and garland the passionless mounds above them with the choicest flowers of Springtime: let us raise above them the dear old flag they saved from dishonor. Let us in this solemn presence renew our pledges to aid and assist those whom they have left among us, a sacred charge upon a nations gratitude the soldiers and sailors widow and orphan.

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Above words from General order No. 11 of the Grand Army of the Republic that documented the establishment of Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, from General John Logan, May 5, 1868.

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Above photos from the funeral of our dear friend, and his grave at Arlington National Cemetery.

As you enjoy your freedoms this Memorial Day, remember the valiant ones who sacrificed everything and gave their very lives.