Memorial Day was created to honor fallen soldiers of the Civil War. It started in the months after the fighting ended, when people in the North and South were placing flowers on headstones, and quickly became a tradition. Originally called "Decoration Day," it eventually became Memorial Day and now honors all American soldiers killed in action.

Over this holiday weekend, let’s make a special effort to remember all we have to be thankful for, especially those men and women who protect the freedom we too-often take for granted. God bless the U.S.A. and all those who defend her!