On Monday, at Memorial Day ceremonies across the country, American’s will pause to remember and honor the sacred memory of the men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving as members of the United States armed forces. Originally known as Decoration Day, our most solemn national holiday began as a way to honor and remember those who died in the Civil War by decorating their graves with flowers.

One of the first recorded observances date back to 1868, three years following the war’s end. An organization of Union veterans issued a decree that May 30^th should be designated as a day of national remembrance to honor the fallen. It is believed the date was chosen because springtime flowers would be in bloom throughout the country. That year, and every since then, the graves throughout Arlington National Cemetery’s hallowed ground were decorated with flowers.

By the end of the 19^th century, annual Memorial Day ceremonies were held all across our great country, and the national observance has continued to evolve since that time. Following World War I, it expanded to honor and remember all military personal who gave their lives in service of our country, and in 1971 it became a federal holiday, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May.

The Harvesters are forever grateful for the sacrifices made by our fallen military personnel and their families. We continue to pray for our men and women who serve to protect the security of our nation and our freedoms. This weekend, please be mindful of the true meaning of the holiday, and those who gave all to preserve the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy today as Americans.

The Harvesters wish you a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day.

May God bless each and every one of you is our earnest prayer,

Danny Parker