Remember

(May 27, 2011) Monday, May 30, is Memorial Day, a federal holiday that honors American service members. It is observed on the last Monday of May. Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. citizens who died while in military service. First enacted to honor Union and Confederate soldiers following the American Civil War, it was extended after World War I to honor Americans who have died in all wars.

Memorial Day often marks the start of the summer vacation season, and Labor Day its end.

Begun as a ritual of remembrance and reconciliation after the Civil War, by the early 20th century, Memorial Day was an occasion for more general expressions of memory, as ordinary people visited the graves of their deceased relatives, whether they had served in the military or not.

Some towns will have patriotic events, including parades and programs, in observance of Memorial Day. Check out Recorder Community Newspapers online for details. While there read some of the 60-plus blogs which may feature reflections on Memorial Day.

Anyone interested in joining the growing group of Recorder bloggers may call me at (908) 832-7420 or e-mail panderson@recordernewspapers.com. Blogging is a free 21st century mode of Internet communication. All you need is an e-mail and connection to the World Wide Web.