"A Day of Honor"

In the last few years I have become more interested in learning the history behind our different holidays and celebration. I'm not getting any younger, and so while my memory is still partially intact, I want to learn all that I can of the events that have shaped our world.
We all know history repeats itself, so maybe in some small way, I can find answers on why we are where we are today.

Memorial Day was intended to be a recognition for the military of both living and dead servicemen . The day originated in the post-civil war era, to care for the graves of Union soldiers that died during the conflict. Maj.Gen.John A Logan, of the proud state of Illinois,(take that Blago), founded the movement.
During the Civil War there were 600,000 young men that didn't have their families around at their moment of death, and caring for those graves was on everyone minds!
Then in the early to mid 20Th century, Americans expanded the holiday to recognize the dead in future conflicts also.
The broadening of Memorial Day is due to the fact that now the veterans themselves are organizing the recognition of the dead. They're the ones that put together all the events. They are all part of the same "band Of brothers" that fought along side each other and who better to know the true sacrifice that was paid by the ones that didn't come home to their families.
Today the American Legion emphasises the ultimate sacrifice that was paid by our slain soldiers,... "as they are the true patriots of this country"

The picture above is of my father Lewis, who served in the army during WW11. He fought in Europe and helped in the liberation of Nazi death camps. He passed away almost ten years ago,.... so to my dad and all those that fought and will fight for our freedom. "thank you for your service!"
We will not forget you!