Memorial Day

Memorial Day is observed in the United States on the last Sunday of May. In 2021 the holiday occurs on May 31. On that day we as a nation recognize and remember those who died while serving in the U.S. military.

Memorial Day officially became a federal holiday in 1971, but its roots go back to the previous century. Following the devastating loss of life in the Civil War it was common to hold events to pay tribute to fallen soldiers. Flowers were placed upon graves, prayers were said, and gatherings were held. Then in 1868 a call came from General John A. Logan for a nationwide day of remembrance, and it was named Decoration Day. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.” Decoration Day events were held in the Northern states, while the South continued to hold observances on different dates.

The holiday evolved over time to also honor & commemorate those who died in subsequent wars, and the name was changed to Memorial Day. In current times the holiday is observed with events such as parades, the wearing of a red poppy, decoration of gravesites, and special services of remembrance. Poems are read and prayers are recited, and many in our nation pause in gratitude and recognition of those who gave their lives in service to our country.

We pause for the men and women who were lost. They deserve our respect and gratitude, and they should be honored and remembered. We also should recognize that those brave individuals helped shape and protect our country.

Our hearts also go out to their families. Those who died were husbands & wives, mothers and fathers, they were children of grieving parents, brothers, sisters, and friends. By honoring and remembering fallen loved ones it also provides comfort to their grieving families.

We must never forget their names. We must never forget their sacrifice. All gave some; some gave all.

We at Morrissett express our gratitude for those who gave their lives in service to our country. We thank you and we honor you.

“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.” Harry S. Truman

“This is the day we pay homage to all those who didn’t come home. This is not Veterans Day, it’s not a celebration, it is a day of solemn contemplation over the cost of freedom.”Tamra Bolton

“May we never forget our fallen comrades. Freedom isn’t free.” Sgt. Major Bill Paxton

Morrissett Funeral and Cremation Service, A Life Celebration Home
6500 Iron Bridge Rd.
N. Chesterfield, VA 23234

(804) 275-7828
info@morrissett.com

Serving the Richmond area since 1870