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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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Decoration Day 2011

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Joseph McKee
  • 914th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, NY. --  
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 and parties 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. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May. Memorial Day was passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays.

Traditional observance of Memorial Day has been diminishing over the years. Many Americans have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries graves of the fallen are ignored and neglected. People no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. While towns and cities still hold Memorial Day parades, many do not. Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country.

While enjoying your hot dog and favorite beverage take time out to reflect on those who defended and sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy today. Teach your children the history of our 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 or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades.