Wishing You a Reflective Memorial Day that we may never forget.
I get goosebumps every time I see this photo. I also remember my trip to D.C. and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Seeing those soldiers keeping watch over that tomb is such an awe-inspiring moment. If you’ve never been and get the opportunity, be sure to go by there.
Today is about remembering those who gave their lives in service to our country. Memorial Day started after the Civil War when people all over the country put flowers on the graves of those killed in the War, both Union and Confederate. You can read about it here.
For years, the country held it on May 30th, because that’s the date the first organized recognition occurred under Maj. Gen. John A. Logan at Arlington Cemetery. Then it moved to the fourth Monday in May to allow families to gather.
Me, personally–I still celebrate it on May 30th and will visit our local National Cemetery where flags adorn each tombstone.
WASHINGTON,USA – JULY 15: changing the guard in the afternoon at the grave of the unknown soldier at the cemetery of Arlington on July 15,2010 in Washington, USA
Post updated and reprinted 2025, and now for one of my favorites I love to hear on Memorial Day.
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Comments 26
Yes, may we always remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
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Amen, Sharon.
Another good post. Thank you.
I have been to Arlington twice and watched the changing of the guard once. A beautiful remembrance of those who gave their all. We had a sweet service at our church cemetery last night placing flags on all who had served.
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I love Arlington. There is such a feeling of reverence there, Linda.
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It is a very beautiful and solemn thing to watch, Linda.
Went to Arlington when I was about 12. Very memorable.
Always remember
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Yes!
We must never forget the sacrifices.
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Amen!
So many memories of past Memorial Days. When I was growing up, there were the cemetery visits to decorate the family graves. We even called it “Decoration Day”. Then there was the city parade. No way would we miss that!
Some of the most moving memories for me were being at Arlington National Cemetery for the concerts. When I lived in San Diego, I often passed the Ft. Rosecrans National Cemetery located on Pt. Loma. There is a beautiful view of the ocean from there. So peaceful.
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We always called Memorial Day Decoration Day, Tim. Usually we’d decorate the graves and then have dinner on the grounds at a nearby church. And an all-day singing.
Thank you for a wonderful post Pat!
I agree, seeing the changing of the guards at the tomb of the unknown soldier at Arlington is such a reverent and spine tingling experience. The Gaither rendition of America the Beautiful is a favorite.
May we always remember!
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Thank you, Mary G! I agree we always need to remember!
That is a timeless picture reminding us of the sacrifices made for our freedom to live each day as we choose. The only sacrifice greater was when Jesus gave His life on Calvary so that we could be free from the penalty of all the wrong choices we make.
I was trying to backspace to delete the duplicated name and accidentally hit send.
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Amen, Edward!
Wonderful post, Pat. Lovely video. Arlington is an awe-inspiring place to visit, one I will never forget.
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Thank you, Gloria! It’s a visit I’ll never forget, either.
I was awe inspired when I learned what the soldiers go through to guard the tomb of the unknown soldier.
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I know, Gail. I researched that when I returned home and was amazed.
I have been to Arlington and it’s sorta breathtaking so see all the gravesites. I also visited the Vietnam wall and found my stepbrother’s name to etch in pencil. That’s pretty chilling also. Happy Memorial Day and thank you for acknowledging all the soldiers who have died for our freedom.
Amen to Ed!!
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I visited the Vietnam Memorial, too, Dottie, and found the names of two friends who died there. It was definitely chilling.
My husband is a Vietnam vet. Very thankful he got to come home!
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Me, too, Judy. I lost several friends over there…