Today we remember. Originally known as “Decoration Day,” Memorial Day was first declared a holiday in 1868 by General John A. Logan to honor the sacrifices of civil war soldiers by decorating their graves.

“The 30th 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 of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.”

These “unprescribed” ceremonies continue today, nearly 140 years later, in community parades, and graveside observances, and now in this relatively new venue of the Internet.

Our “posts and comrades” will, in our own way today, provide fitting testimonials of respect for those who have died to uphold our freedom. We’re the land of the free because of the brave.