W. Howard Coop
111 Dogwood Drive
Lancaster, Kentucky 40444–1034

For 132 years, Memorial Day—or its predecessor, Decoration Day—has been a significant observance in communities across America. It was first observed on May 30, 1868, after General John A. Logan, Commander-In-Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, called for a special day "for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country" during the Civil War. Since that call went out, the observance has become a national holiday set aside to honor all deceased veterans who served their country in any war.

Memorial Day is observed with patriotic fervor in many communities. The flag of our country is flown proudly in public places and displayed with dignity on the graves of veterans who gave without limit to their country in time of need. Parades emphasizing patriotism and public assemblies with patriotic addresses by prominent citizens are common. All of these are designed to stir the heart of each citizen with a sense of appreciation for and indebtedness to those who have participated in the preservation of the freedom we cherish in this "land of the free and the home of the brave."

Some aspects of the original idea of Decoration Day remain as cherished traditions in many communities. Beyond paying respect to veterans who served their country, many families gather at cemeteries to decorate the graves of deceased loved ones. Through that simple act across several generations, those families have hallowed the memory of their loved ones and recognized the contributions they made to the benefit of all generations. Memorial Day is a significant observance that helps us remember our entire precious heritage.

May we never forget it.

W. Howard Coop is a retired United Methodist Minister and has been a Mason since 1952. He is a Past Master of Lancaster Lodge No. 104, currently serving as Chaplain and member of Lancaster Chapter No. 56 R.A.M. and the Scottish Rite Bodies of Louisville, Kentucky.