Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day is a remembrance for all those who have died in our nation’s service. Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5th 1868 by General John Logan, a national Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic in his General Order number 11. It was first observed on May 30th, 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.

Memorial Day is now observed by most states on the last Monday of May. Moina Michael conceived the idea to wear red poppies on Memorial Day to honor those who have died serving the nation during war. The VFW became the first veteran organization to sell red poppies shortly before Memorial Day in 1922. Memorial Day is about reconciliation. It’s about honoring those who gave their lives.

In December 2000, there was a resolution passed to help re-educate and remind Americans about what Memorial Day is supposed to be about. This resolution is called the “National Moment of Remembrance”. It asks that all Americans pause at 3:00 in the afternoon (local time) and give a moment to remember and respect the lives that this day stands for.

The freedoms that we still have, which would include owning real estate, we have because of the many who have given their all.