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Today is Memorial Day. As many of us excitedly look forward to gathering with friends and family and enjoying the long weekend, it's easy to lose sight of its significance.
For the military families across the U.S., especially those of the just under 6,000 American soldiers killed in Iraq and Afghanistan in the last 10 years fighting the war on Terror, it's a day to honor those who have given their lives for our country.
Some of you may not know this but, Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day and was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Civil War soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. In 1971, federal law changed the holiday to the last Monday in May and extended it to honor all who had died in American wars.
So today, as many cities celebrate Memorial Day with parades, speeches and the decoration of graves, remember the fallen.
At Arlington National Cemetery (http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/visitor_information/anc_facts.html), an American flag will be placed on each grave. It's tradition for the president or vice president to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
So as you prepare for your weekend barbecues or camping trips, remember do something for the soldiers who have done so much for our country; whether by honoring a fallen soldier, supporting a military family, or brightening the day of one currently serving, take a moment to remember the sacrifices made by those in our military who won’t be enjoying the long holiday weekend.
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