From the Eastford Independent Fire Company #1, Inc.
What do you do to remember people who have died for their country? If they are from your family, you might go to the cemetery to put flowers on graves. From the time of the U.S Civil War, Americans have set aside time to remember those who served their country. One of those times is Memorial Day.
No one knows for sure when people first started honoring the Civil War dead. Originally, it was called Decoration Day, because the graves were decorated with flowers. Many southern families began the tradition during the war. A hymn was published called “Kneel Where Our Loves Are Sleeping,” and it was dedicated to the ladies who decorated the graves of fallen soldiers.
General John Logan declared May 30, 1868 a day to decorate the graves of soldiers from both the North and the South in Arlington National Cemetery. New York was the first state to give official recognition to the holiday. Most states in the North recognized it by 1890.
In 1922, the VFW – Veterans of Foreign Wars – became the first national American veterans’ group to see artificial poppies. Two years later, disabled vets began making the poppies to sell. In the 1950’s American flags were placed on the graves in Arlington National Cemetery. They serve as a reminder of the importance of national unity and gratitude.
In recent years, many people have forgotten the true meaning of Memorial Day. They think of it only as a holiday to mark the start of summer. When we think of Memorial Day this year, remember the soldiers who served our country. Many of them died to give us the freedoms we now enjoy.
Before Memorial Day, U.S. flags with service honor markers will be displayed at the Grove Cemetery, along with flags to honor deceased fire department members. Take a moment to slow down, reflect and give thanks. Home of the free, because of the brave.
- Submitted by Jeannine Spink