The day is dedicated to remembering those who died while serving in the United States military services. Originally known as “Decoration Day,” the holiday started after the American Civil War (1861-1865). While the dates are debated, the first Memorial Day observance as a holiday was in 1864, 149 years ago. If that year is considered official, next year will be the 150th Anniversary of the first Memorial Day celebrated in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania. The official recognition of the holiday came with a Congressional Act in 1967.
There are memorial days honoring soldiers in every country and region at different times of the year. It is important to remember.
Living in Israel for so long, the Jewish tradition – command – to remember is absolute. We must survive to testify the truth, to tell the story, to preserve the past so we dare not repeat it. On the walls of Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial in Jerusalem, are the words “always remember, never forget,” a mantra that many recall on Memorial Day.
There are many layers and perspectives on a day honoring war, soldiers, military acts and forces, and the winners and losers as we defend ourselves, protect our borders, protect others, and control the world around us.
Today’s blog exercise is based upon memorials.
Whether or not you’ve been personally touched by war and the military, find a way to blog about honoring those who fight on our behalf, for whatever reasons.
You might be inclined to rant about military action. That’s okay. You may have been in war or served in the military and wish to share your own experiences. You may have been directly involved with the military and loss in the military. All voices, opinions, and stories are welcome as you take on this subject on your site.
Take care to remember that everyone has an opinion. Don’t let that hold you back. You have a right to share your own story, your own perspective on Memorial Day, be it the day of your country’s holiday or not.
SPOILER: By the end of June, I will be publishing the first six months of Blog Exercises as an ebook, the first half of what will become the final book at the end of the year. Stay tuned for news!