Why Do We Celebrate Memorial Day?
The last weekend of May is about more than just celebrating the start of summer or the grill’s opening. It’s about time to honor and mourn the hundreds of thousands of deceased servicemen and women who fought and died for our country. Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May and is a designated federal holiday. According to the National Cemetery Administration, it was initially called Decoration Day.
As we prepare nationwide to honor our country’s heroes, it’s important to understand how Memorial Day started and its significance.
How Memorial Day Started
According to PBS’s Memorial Day history, local observances were once held at burial grounds across the United States, including one on May 1, 1865, in Charleston, South Carolina. It was organized by formerly enslaved people to pay tribute and give proper burial to Union troops. There was a reported parade of 10,000 people to honor 257 dead Union soldiers who were buried in a mass grave at the Washington Racecourse in Charleston.
Memorial Day was then formalized by a ‘Memorial Day Order’ issued by the Grand Army of the Republic Commander-in-Chief John A. Logan in 1868. The first national observance of Memorial Day occurred on May 30, 1868.
Honoring our fallen soldiers also includes the tradition of decorating their graves with flowers, wreaths, and flags. Every year, at Arlington National Cemetery, an American flag is placed on the graves of those buried there.
Although our veterans have two annual holidays that honor them, you can show your appreciation year-round in many ways. Some of these include flying the American flag or writing a letter to a soldier or veteran. Soldiers’ Angels is a national charity that connects people with veterans and soldiers to send cards and letters.
How to Celebrate in Charleston
Locally, you can donate to an organization like The Fisher House Charleston. The
Fisher House is a place for families of those being treated at Charleston’s Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center to stay. The VA Center provides a comfortable and safe home close to the veteran.
This Memorial Day, mark your calendar so you don’t miss these other family-friendly events honoring our military.
Dual Band Concert: Listen to the Charleston Concert Band and the Columbia
Community Band during their free one-hour Memorial Day Concert on Monday, May 26. Bring chairs or a blanket to Hampton Park for the 3 p.m. start time and enjoy the bands as they play patriotic songs to honor those who serve our country.
Tee Off for Charity: Fore! The Warrior Surf Foundation is holding its 9th Annual Charity Golf Classic at the RiverTowne Country Club Golf Course on Monday, May 26. Who cares what your handicap is? Whether you’re a novice or a pro, grab your clubs for a round of golf that starts with a 9 a.m. shotgun and ends with an after-party. In between, there will be a moment of silence to honor those who have passed, stories from those who have loved ones in service, and an option to dedicate a commemorative flag to a fallen service member. The money raised will fund a free, 12-week program for Veterans and their families. There are prizes for the winning foursome.
Charleston Memorial Day Parade: Bring the kids and find the best spot for this year’s Memorial Day Parade. The children’s parade will start at 4 p.m. There will be numerous free activities, including a community cookout, ice cream sundaes, and fireworks to top off the night. Check their Facebook page for regular updates, a schedule of events, and more.
Stuhr Funeral Home, a trusted name in funeral service for more than 150 years, understands that everyone grieves differently. They have the resources and experts to help you prepare for every aspect of the service. Together, they’re dedicated to providing the best and most professional care for their clients during their time of grieving and healing. For more information, stop by one of our locations in the area or call (843) 723-2524.
