“For love of country, they accepted death.’’ – James A. Garfield. These words, uttered over 100 years ago, are just as appropriate today as they were then. On Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, we honor the nation’s military men and women who died for their country by placing wreaths and flowers on war memorials and gravesites. Communities all across the land hold special ceremonies and parades to pay tribute to generations of soldiers, sailors and airmen who served bravely in the military and never returned home. Nearly every family in the country has lost a loved one over the years as the result of a war, conflict, or skirmish. The void is deep. 

While many of the nation’s cities hold elaborate ceremonies and parades, complete with appropriate floats, in Maine’s small communities, the public tributes to our fallen veterans are much simpler. A wreath is placed at each monument and a prayer is offered, along with the playing of taps. Fewer and fewer of our veterans march each year, but even the dwindling number doesn’t diminish the significance as they pay homage to those who never returned.

A float which appeared in our local parades for a number of years was also a sobering reminder of the horrors of war: The flatbed carrying rows of empty chairs signifying our POWs and MIAs. Another unforgettable experience for Maine people is a visit over Memorial Day weekend to the Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Togus.  You don’t easily forget seeing acres and acres of cemetery lots flying the American flag and decorated with flowers. While we’ve never been there, Arlington National Cemetery, too, we’re told is a scene you can never get out of your mind.

Individual families visit the graves of deceased family veterans to honor them with flowers and remember their extreme sacrifice. It has also become a tradition to decorate the graves of all beloved relatives as well on this special holiday.

Like all Monday holidays with three-day weekends for some working folks, Memorial Day has become a time for family gatherings, cookouts, picnics and other outdoor activities. We’re sure our deceased veterans would have approved of this American tradition. After all, they fought to preserve our way of life and our freedoms.

Have a pleasant Memorial Day, keeping in mind all those who helped make it possible.