By Matthew Grimley
Memorial Day, a time where many Americans have off of school or work, gather with family, and have summer barbecues. Tragically, this is all the holiday has become. We have forgotten the true meaning of Memorial Day. The Current OC explains the true meaning and observation of Memorial Day and finds out the true meaning of this commemorative holiday. Memorial Day was first officially observed in 1868, after General John A. Logan, the commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization for Union Civil War Veterans, called for “Decoration Day” a national holiday which would celebrate and remember the lives lost in the Civil War. Though it would start as a holiday just remembering Civil War veterans, both World Wars would turn it into a generalized day of remembrance for America’s fallen servicemen. This holiday would originally be celebrated through veterans parades and decorating the graves of military members. However, as time went on, many people forgot the meaning of this holiday and instead commercialism took over – and the holiday became a time for sales, special events, and concerts – all of which fail to properly observe the Day’s intention – honor fallen servicemen and women. However, it doesn’t need to be this way, you can observe the holiday with respect and remembrance by; volunteering with veterans and the American Legion, making a donation to veterans, decorating the graves of America’s fallen, or by simply remembering and reflecting on those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.