By Jason Matheney, Northwest Region Services to the Armed Forces Director
The history of Memorial Day is unique to our country, established in May of 1868 by General Jon A. Logan, the then Commander in Chief of the Union Veterans’ group, also known as the Grand Army of the Republic. Logan Identified May 30th as the nationwide commemoration for the Soldiers that were killed in the Civil War, initially naming the day “Decoration Day”. Logan encouraged Americans to place flowers on the graves of the Soldiers, and according to legend, Logan chose May 30th because it was a rare day that didn’t fall on the anniversary of a Civil War battle.
Today, many Americans see Memorial Day as a rite of passage to the summer, but in respects to the sacrifices that were made by our Service Men and Women to uphold our liberty and democracy, it is a solemn day of remembrance, that reinforces the true character of our Nation to stand together during difficult times, no matter the sacrifice.
So, I encourage all Red Crossers across the Region on Memorial Day, Monday May 25th to commemorate the sacrifices of our Service Men and Women, who selflessly gave their lives for our freedom. I invite all of you to participate in a moment of remembrance that will take place at 3 p.m. local time across the state, please take the time to pause whatever you are doing and give our nations Fallen Heroes the respect that they deserve.
American Red Cross NW Region 