Memorial Day

Next Monday, May 27, 2013, is Memorial Day. The first observances were within a few years after the end of the Civil War in the late 1860’s, although it wasn’t actually proclaimed as a national holiday until 1971 by an Act of Congress. In 1966 President Lyndon Johnson proclaimed Waterloo NY as the birthplace of Memorial Day where the first official celebration took place on May 5, 1866.

Memorial Day weekend is often the time for barbecues, a time when family and friends get together to socialize and enjoy food and fun. But while we are out having a good time, let’s remember the real meaning of this holiday.

Let’s honor our military veterans who are now, and have through the centuries, defending our country and our freedom. Men and women who have given their all so that we can continue to enjoy the life and liberty we often take for granted.

During your barbecue, please stop and join the rest of the country to pay tribute to the U.S. men and women who died during military service by observing a minute of silence at 3:00 PM, local time.

If you are a veteran, thank you. If you know a veteran, please thank them. If you have lost a loved one who was a veteran, our condolences and our thanks. From the bottom of our hearts.