The meaning of Memorial Day

0
1240
The annual Memorial Day parade in Grand Lake is this Monday, May 28.
The annual Memorial Day parade in Grand Lake is this Monday, May 28.

by Duane Dailey
Grand County Veterans Service

Memorial Day, Monday, May 28 is truly the most solemn of all United States holidays, a time to remember those American soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice, to keep our country free, as well as the freedom loving world.

The true meaning of Memorial Day, though, dates back to the days of the Civil War. Originally, it was called Decoration Day, a day when family members would take time out of their lives to quietly attend to the graves of their loved ones by planting flowers and sprucing up the graves of those loved ones.

By the mid-20th century Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died in serve to their county. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, or parades to commemorate this space day.

Locally, here in Grand County, the cemeteries are attended to, and graves marked by a small American flag by patriotic, freedom-loving, community-minded individuals and groups, who sincerely understand the meaning of this weekend. In Fraser, under the leadership of Connie Clayton, the Fraser Cemetery Association erects American-made flags. Grand Lake is attended to by the Grand Lake Women’s Club, with the support of the Town of Grand Lake. Kremmling is served by members of VFW Post 9374 and family members. Hot Sulphur Springs has its flags done by American Legion Post #88 and family members. Granby Cemetery is attended to by American Legion Post #88 and Cub Scout Pack #104, Troop 6, under the leadership of Becky Trail. Boy Scout Troop #104 engages in the spirit of Memorial Day by distributing bubby poppies. American Legion Post 88 will have the highest quality American Flags for sale.

The annual Memorial Day parade in Grand Lake is truly an amazing and successful endeavor, thanks to the efforts of an amazing group of individuals, volunteers, and local businesses . Please attend the parade that assembles at 9:30 a.m., at the west end of main street at Triangle Park. Parade kicks off at 10:00 am on Memorial Day, Monday, May 28. All Veterans are asked to please walk (march), ride the people mover or your motorcycle with fellow veterans.

All are asked to please attend the Veterans Memorial Ceremony held after the parade in the Grand Lake Town Square. Veterans and family members are then asked to please attend the Veterans Appreciation luncheon, starting at 11:30am at Poncho and Lefty’s after the Veterans Memorial ceremony in the Grand Lake Town Square. The luncheon is free to Veterans.

Other important events this summer are Hot Sulphur Days, Kremmling Days and the Granby 4th of July parade. Most importantly, on this Memorial Day take time to reflect on the true meaning of this solemn occasion. Remember those who gave all. Remember that you can enjoy your freedom thanks to these brave women and men that made the ultimate, supreme sacrifice, their life, so that you may be able to enjoy freedom.