Memorial Day in 2020

Memorial Day was first widely observed in 1868 as a way to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War Soldiers. In 1971, Congress made the observance official by passing the Uniform Monday Holiday Act which declared the last Monday of May to be Memorial Day. Cities across America started hosting ceremonies, parades and celebrations to honor our fallen heroes. Many Americans also began using the day to memorialize and celebrate the lives of anyone who had passed away, military or not. It is these customs and ceremonies that helped remind our communities of the sacrifice of our veterans, but also reminded our younger generations of the cost of our freedoms and liberties. It was also these traditions that allowed us to visit the cemetery to remember all of those we lost. In a way, it was very healthy for the grieving process, and helped people cope with tragedy and loss. Over time we have lost these traditions and events, and the cemetery has become a place where we seldom visit. We are losing touch with our history.

Most cities across the United States have some sort of Memorial Day Celebration. Of course, this year due to the pandemic, celebrations may look differently. However, imagine if we took time out of our Memorial Day weekend to show our support of such events. We could really begin to build a strong tradition that could impact generations to come. It is essential that we encourage our community, especially younger generations, to visit the cemetery more often. We need to honor those who have gone before us, and remember the hard work and sacrifice they made for us to enjoy what we so often take for granted. We would not have what we are so blessed to have without those generations that have built this country through blood, sweat, and tears. Memorial Day is a great way for us to continue tradition as well as remember and honor all of those who have gone before us. So, as our cities begin to open back up and families begin to emerge from their homes again, let’s remember to make a visit or two to the cememtery, as well. Afterall, they are safe places to gather and social distance in the warmth of the spring sun while remembering the lives represented by the monuments of stone.

We would like to say, “Thank you” to all of those who have served, and are serving our country. We are grateful for your service, your sacrifice and the sacrifices of your families. We would also like to say to our community members who are actively grieving that we see you, we acknowledge your grief and we desire to be a safe place for you to heal. If you have any questions regarding grief or grieving resources, please contact us at beth@morrisonmonuments.com , stop in for a visit or call us at 937.310.1035.