by Joan Mccord

Created on: May 07, 2010   Last Updated: May 18, 2010

At the close of the Civil War, more than 600,000 Confederate and Union soldiers had been killed, many far from home with no chance for "good byes" or burial by family and loved ones.

In an attempt to heal and assuage the horror of the conflict, May 5 (the date was later changed to May 30) was set aside as Decoration Day, a day when ordinary citizens visit sites where fallen soldiers, Confederate or Union, were buried. Enthusiastic citizens responded to clean the cemeteries, wash tomb stones, decorate graves with flags and flowers, and remember more peaceful days.

At the close of World War II, Decoration Day became Memorial Day when all soldiers fallen in battle, not just Civil War heroes, are remembered and honored.

Today, there is usually a formal Memorial Day observance led by local contingents of military veterans. Willing participants visit cemeteries, either huge and formal or small and personal, to decorate and give honor to the fallen.

Aside from the seriousness and solemnity of the day, Memorial Day has also become a kick-off for summer.

This is the day to revive and reintroduce the trappings of summer: Sun hats, light clothing, white shoes, sandals, and picnics. Since the day of observance is no longer May 5 or May 30, but the Monday closest to May 30, the long weekend is ideal for a get-away to a favorite summer recreation spot.

Parades are everywhere. In small towns they might only consist of a drum and bugle corps, plus a fascinating assortment of flags, kids, pets, strollers, and people having fun.

Also, this is the perfect time to visit the Nation's capital. The National Memorial Day Parade steps off on Constitution Avenue at 2 o’clock in the afternoon with bands from all 50 states.

Traditionally, this is the weekend that Rolling Thunder visits the Capital. There will be thousands of motorcycles to admire as they ride through the Capital, visit the Navy Memorial for a wreath-laying ceremony, and conclude their visit with a program and musical tribute to veterans, especially those missing in action, at the reflecting pool across from the Lincoln Memorial.

The PBS concert on Sunday evening, May 30, on the West lawn of the Capital is free, but you will need a ticket. It features The National Symphony Orchestra, dramatic readings and films, and an all-star line up of dignitaries, actors and musicians.

Memorial Day is a time for retrospection; remember those who have fallen in wars and their survivors. In one way or another, we have all been touched by the ravages of war.

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