Memorial Day is a Federal holiday and often a misunderstood holiday. It was originally called Decoration Day and was started to honor Union soldiers who had died during the Civil War. After World War I, all men and women who died in any war or military action were also included. It is a day to honor the men and women who gave their life serving our country and we extend that to any veteran who has passed away, whether during a war or not. We decorate their graves with flags, flowers and other memorabilia, as an outward sign of the honor and thanks we give them this day.

Many folks think it's a day to honor anyone who has died and most folks have flowers on the graves of their loved ones this weekend, too. There's nothing wrong with doing so, just remember the true meaning of this holiday. When you're enjoying the long weekend with picnics, gatherings, campouts, etc., just make sure you pause and remember the sacrifices our hero Veteran's and their families have made so that we can enjoy the freedoms we do, each and every day.

Today's photos remind us of the proper way to observe this day. Donna MacIntosh shares our flag, waving proud against a backdrop of clouds, Lori Ann DeRoche shares a photo of American Legion Post 90's bugler, during the Memorial Day Services at the Lake Linden cemetery and the last photo shows the pride we have here in the Keweenaw. If you've driven M-26 coming into Lake Linden, you may have seen this woodpile as you make the curve into town. Since I didn't check with him beforehand, I won't mention the name of the woodpile artist, but what a unique way to honor our Veterans and our country.

I'd like to end with a quote that is quite fitting for today:
“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.” – President Harry S. Truman

God bless those who gave their lives for our wonderful America and God bless the Gold Star families. We can never honor them enough.

For Terry, Larry and Jerry and all who served this country to keep us safe...'Thank You'.

We know the artist of the woodpile....pretty good guy.

Thankfully, nobody close to me has died while
serving our country. For those of you who have
lost loved ones, especially our good friend Kosk,
my condolences to you and thank you so very much
for the gift we have been given. God bless you
all and God bless the USA!!!

Amen.

May we all live up to their sacrifice.
"Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends."
(John 15:13 - NKJV)

Beautifully done. Very Patriotic.

Very Honorable pictures, just like those who gave
their All. My husband played Taps for many
Memorial Day Services back in the day a lost art
now with the convenience of Taps on recordings.

When I was in school, we used to go to the
cemeteries to play taps also. I played trombone
and had to go away from the rest of the band and
played the echo. It meant so much to everybody.
We still have that here. It's awesome!

Thank you, Deb.