Memorial Day is the federal holiday observed yearly on the last Monday of May. The primary purpose of the day is to honor and remember the men and women who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Originally known as Decoration Day, the tradition began after the American Civil War to commemorate Union and Confederate soldiers who lost their lives during the conflict. Over time, the holiday evolved to include honoring all Americans who have died in military service.
On Memorial Day, people visit cemeteries and place flags or flowers on graves, attend memorial services, hold parades, and display the American flag at half-staff until noon. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by military personnel and express gratitude for their service and dedication to protecting the nation.
In honor of Memorial Day, a poem…
Not to Keep
by Robert Frost
They sent him back to her. The letter came
Saying… and she could have him. And before
She could be sure there was no hidden ill
Under the formal writing, he was in her sight—
Living.— They gave him back to her alive—
How else? They are not known to send the dead—
And not disfigured visibly. His face?—
His hands? She had to look—to ask,
“What was it, dear?” And she had given all
And still she had all—they had—they the lucky!
Wasn’t she glad now? Everything seemed won,
And all the rest for them permissible ease.
She had to ask, “What was it, dear?”
“Enough,
Yet not enough. A bullet through and through,
High in the breast. Nothing but what good care
And medicine and rest—and you a week,
Can cure me of to go again.” The same
Grim giving to do over for them both.
She dared no more than ask him with her eyes
How was it with him for a second trial.
And with his eyes he asked her not to ask.
They had given him back to her, but not to keep.
