I was interested to find that before Veteran’s Day was introduced in November, that it was celebrated at the end of May under the title of Decoration Day, but it was so greatly dominated by the Civil War, that another day, namely November 11, was chosen to remember veterans aptly named Veteran’s Day. The term “Memorial Day” was first used in 1882, and today has been adopted to indicate the beginning of Summer, by being celebrated on the last Monday in May as opposed to the fixed date of 30th May. Although many people enjoy the long weekend it ensures, many a veteran feel that the importance and reverence of the day has been ignored and are lobbying to return it to that date.
Regardless, today we take our hats off to those who sacrificed themselves all those years ago, though it does makes me think. Whilst their bravery cannot be undermined, why does it always have to be the innocent ones who are sacrificed? Isn’t it often the one in power, who has the nice office, nice house, nice family and who would never be called upon to go to war, who makes the decision regarding others’ lives? I wonder if they were making a decision for themselves whether their choice would remain the same. And what of the bravery of all those women who were left behind? I for one, will be incorporating them into my thoughts at 3pm today.
Now you have had a bit of history and a thought for the day, whatever way you choose to celebrate Memorial Day, may it be an enjoyable one!
