Memorial Day is set aside to honor the soldiers who have died fighting for this country.

It stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made to secure the freedom we enjoy in this country, a privilege we often take for granted.

Memorial Day traces its origins to the Civil War, which claimed more lives than any other war in U.S. history. This massive loss to the country prompted the first national cemeteries. After the war, various towns and cities across the U.S. started tributes to these fallen heroes, adorning their graves with flowers and offering prayers.

Waterloo, New York in particular is known as the birthplace of Memorial Day because many businesses in Waterloo closed for the day, and a city-wide effort was made to honor every grave in the local cemeteries. This tradition in Waterloo and across the U.S. became known as "Decoration Day." It gained official recognition on May 5, 1868, when General John A. Logan, a leader among Northern Civil War veterans, proclaimed a national day of remembrance. New York was the first state to make Decoration Day an official state holiday in 1873, with many more northern states following suit.

Initially only honoring Civil War casualties, Memorial Day shifted after World War I to honor fallen soldiers from all of American history. For decades, it remained anchored on May 30th, General Logan's chosen date. However, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968 shifted Memorial Day to the last Monday in May, creating a three-day weekend for federal employees, effective in 1971. This change also elevated Memorial Day to a federal holiday, ensuring the nation's annual remembrance of its fallen heroes.

Memorial Day is important because it reminds us that as Americans we are blessed. In order to truly appreciate what we have, our country must remember that our privilege comes from many sacrifices. Use this day to honor the brave souls who have given their all for our country, and make sure that their sacrifices are always remembered and revered.

Be well, Auburn.