Memorial Day 2018

The origins of Memorial Day go back to 1868 when, three years after the end of the Civil War, Major General John Logan, head of an organization of Union veterans called the Grand Army of the Republic, declared that May 30 be established as Decoration Day in recognition of those killed during that conflict.  (Many believe that May 30 was chosen because flowers would be in bloom everywhere around the country on that date.)

The first large-scale observance of Decoration Day was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery - once the home of Robert E. Lee - across the Potomac River from Washington DC. General Ulysses S. Grant presided at the ceremony, and flowers were placed on the graves of veterans.

Over time, Decoration Day evolved into Memorial Day and after World War I, the event was broadened to include honoring those who have died in all American wars. In 1971, by act of Congress, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday set for the last Monday in May.

I would like to wish the people of Oregon County a safe Memorial Day. I hope everyone will take a moment, the day, or the entire long weekend to remember our service men and women and law enforcement officers who, throughout our long history, made the ultimate sacrifice to protect and defend their country and their communities.

Sheriff Eric King