Wishing everyone a very safe, blessed, and Happy Memorial Day!

On May 5, 1868 – just a few years after the end of the Civil War – Gen. John A. Logan, National Commander of the Army of the Republic, was the first to make Memorial Day official. With General Order No. 11, he stated in part that “the 30th day of May 1868 is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country.” Since then, Americans of all ages and backgrounds have honored the memory of those who have sacrificed in the defense of our liberties and freedoms each in their own way.

Today and everyday it is important to be thankful for the liberties and freedoms we enjoy as Americans, and honor those who have and continue to sacrifice to safeguard them.