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Gen. Mike Minihan, Commander of Air Mobility Command, visits the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station June 8, 2024.

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Memorial Day 2012

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Joseph McKee
  • 914th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station --  Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. It is a day of picnics, parties and the traditional start of the summer season but most importantly it is a day to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. New York in 1873 was the first state to officially recognize this holiday. It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May. Memorial Day as a federal holiday was passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 ensuring a three day weekend.

Traditional observances of Memorial Day include the placement of flags at the graves of those who have served their country, parades in local communities and other types of recognition events. While enjoying your hot dog and favorite beverage take time out to remember and reflect on those who defended and sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy today. Teach your children the history of the Flag and the story of the brave men and women who paid the ultimate price in defense of our country. Be one of the many Americans to observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries, memorials and participating in parades. It is important that we maintain the integrity of this holiday and all that it stands for.