|
|
Article: Megan Lavallee: It's important to remember why we celebrate Memorial Day
- Article from:
- Oakland Tribune
- Article date:
- May 20, 2009
- Author:
CopyrightCopyright 2009 Oakland Tribune. Provided by ProQuest LLC. (Hide copyright information)
|
TOO MANY TIMES we relish in the joys of a long weekend, such as
Memorial Day, remembering it only as the marking of the beginning of
summer. Too often we forget why it truly exists, not to highlight
what used to be the ending of a school year, but to honor those who
have fought and fallen for us to have the freedom to enjoy the
glorious hours of summer ahead.
Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, was designed as a
day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service.
There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with more than
two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of