Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. After World War I the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war.

Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored, neglected. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day.

While spending time with our friends and family this weekend, let's remember the real purpose of the holiday!  Make sure to remember that the holiday is for the men and women that have given there lives for this country.