Monday, May 31, 2010

Honoring Those Who Served and Died for Our Country


"Memorial Day Order"

General Orders No. 11, Grand Army of the Republic Headquarters.
I. The 30th day 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. In this observance no form or ceremony is prescribed, but Posts and com­rades will, in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.
. . .
Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic.
. . .
Let us, then, at the time appointed, gather around their sacred remains, and garland the passionless mounds above them with choicest flowers of springtime; let us raise above them the dear old flag they saved; let us in this solemn presence renew our pledge to aid and assist those whom they have left among us a sacred charge upon the Nation's gratitude—the soldier's and sailor's widow and orphan.
. . .

By Command of:

John A. Logan
Commander in Chief
May 5, 1868


1 comment:

OregonGuy said...

I made a special attempt today to tell those who have come here legally that this day was also to remember those of our allies who were lost.

Two Koreans, one army and one air force, a Brit, army, and an Aussie. With whom I drank beer.

Light blogging tomorrow.
.