May 31, 2021 at 6:45 a.m.
It's Memorial Day
It's Memorial Day
"More than just bbq, family time, & the kick-off to summer, Memorial Day commemorates the men and women who died while in the military service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. The purpose of Memorial Day is to memorialize the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
"In 1950 Congress agreed upon a resolution asking the President to "issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe...Memorial Day, by praying, each in accordance with his religious faith, for permanent peace." 20 years later in 1968, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was finally passed, which declared that Memorial Day would take place on the last Monday in May and required that federal employees be granted a day off. In 1971, Memorial Day officially became a federal holiday intended to observe and honor the people who lost their lives while serving in the US military."
One of traditional annual events that got canceled last year because of the pandemic was the prelude to Memorial Day at VFW Post 1706 including the lighting of luminaries in the shape of a cross on the VFW lawn.
On Sunday (May 30th) that event returned. Mayor Ed Hatley made brief remarks thanking those veterans who were able to attend and remembering those who have passed, those whom Memorial Day is intended to honor.
We think it's important to note that the very first Lincoln Countians who gave their lives while fighting for their country were the Patriots who died at the Battle of Ramsour's Mill. [See separate Lincoln Herald article: "The Battle of Ramsour's Mill."]
Some of those we remember and honor this Memorial Day died in battle; others survived their time of military service but have since passed. Among those who have recently died after returning home from their battles was one of the last of our World War II vets, Ralph Sisk. Another was perhaps the most decorated soldier from Lincoln County during the Vietnam War, J.C. Mayfield.
This Monday afternoon at two o'clock, a brief ceremony will be held on the east side of the Lincoln County Courthouse in downtown Lincolnton, including the laying of wreaths at the Veterans Memorial.
The last US President to see combat was President George H.W. Bush, who earned the Distinguished Service Flying Cross as a member of the Navy Reserve. His son, President George W. Bush, was the last US President so far to have served in the military.
The Memorial Day ceremonies on the Courtsquare have been poorly attended in many years. It is hoped that this year, many will take the time to show their respect, honor, and appreciation for those who died while defending America.
May 19, 2024
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