The birthplace of what we now call “Memorial Day” in the North is Waterloo, New York. In 1966 President Johnson declared it so. It was there on May 5, 1866 that Civil War veterans marched to three local cemeteries and decorated the graves of their fallen comrades.  In the South, women in Columbus, Georgia layed flowers on the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers in April of that same year.

“Memorial Day” became the official name of this day of honor in 1967.  It is, and always has been, a day to remember those who have given their all for our freedom.  To show our appreciation for those who are still serving, and express our thanks.

Thank you, Vets.  For the time you spent away from your families in areas of the world that were dangerous, and not so pleasant.  Thank you, for coming back alive.

Thank you to those currently serving.  We hope that you will be able to rejoin your families as quickly as possible.  Please come home safely.

Thank you very much.