- General Orders No.11, Grand Army of the Republic Headquarters, May 5, 1868
This weekend, as we enjoy time with family and friends, we should stop and remember the meaning of this national holiday. Memorial Day is a uniquely American holiday that finds its origins in the aftermath of our Civil War, when our country searched for a proper way to commemorate the many who had fallen in the long struggle to end slavery and unify our nation.
Today, we remember all of those throughout our history and to this very day who gave their lives serving our country in uniform. Our prayers are especially with the surviving family members for whom everyday is memorial day, as they live on remembering their loved ones who died selflessly to protect the freedoms we hold dear.
And on Memorial Day, let us also remember all veterans, past and present, because everyone who wears the uniform and swears the oath is willing to make that ultimate sacrifice for America. So, in honoring them let’s keep in mind this version of a popular poem as we show respect for those willing to sacrifice all for our exceptional country:
It is the veteran, who salutes the flag, who serves under the flag, and whose coffin will be draped by the flag.”
- Sarah Palin
(Enjoy this version of the poem recited by Fred Thompson.)
Text only from Sarah Palin’s Facebook page, May 30, 2010
