Memorable Memorial Day QuotesAnd I’m proud to be an American,
where at least I know I’m free.
And I won’t forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me. — Lee Greenwood
The legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example. — Benjamin Disraeli
Brief History of Memorial Day
In addition to Memorial Day being the unofficial start of summer, this is a time to pay respect to the service men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. It was in 1968 then Memorial Day was official moved to the last Monday in the month May. The main reason for moving the holiday to a Monday is because national ceremonies held on Monday a much more somber tone.
Memorial Day was formerly known at Decoration Day. Decoration Day originated to recognize and honor both the Union and Confederate soldiers who died during the Civil War. However, by the 20th century, this day of remembrance was extended to honor all Americans how died while in the military.
Like countless villages, towns and cities across our great nation, Elk Rapids celebrates Memorial Day with an annual parade and remembering each soldier from Elk Rapids at Heritage Park located in Downtown Elk Rapids. In addition to the ceremony, Elk Rapids also has an American flag made with red, white and blue balloons proudly on the walking bridge over Elk River. I placed the audio file of our national Anthem from the United States Marine Band (royalty free) on the video.
Here is video of the Blue Angels practicing over East Bay and Traverse City, Michigan for the National Cherry Festival in 2012. Traverse City is about 45 minutes from Bellaire. Bellaire is the national headquarters for Traverse Bay Farms and Fruit Advantage. The Blue Angels bring out a deep sense of pride and patriotism.
From everyone at Traverse Bay Farms, we wish you and your family and the families of those who has lost loved ones during military service, a safe and happy Memorial Day. God Bless America