VRW Post 7641 observes Memorial Day

Memorial Day at 2 p.m. the community gathered at the New London Veterans Memorial. Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day honors U.S. military personnel who died serving in the armed forces.

It was originally observed on May 30. Decoration Day began in 1866 and had spread nationwide by 1868. May was chosen as the flowers are in bloom.

In 1970, the date was changed to the last Monday in May. In 1971, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act and Memorial Day became a federal holiday.

This year Commander Dave McGregor read Logan’s Orders. Gen. John A. Logan of the Grand Army issued the first proclamation. He commemorated the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers.

Com. McGregor also shared some words from Red Skelton regarding the meaning of Memorial Day.

In 1969 on his national TV show, Red explained the meaning of the Pledge. He had had a teacher stop them and explain each phrase.

The moment struck young Red and it stayed with him forever. Mary Rink and Dianna Klaus read the story of the Old Tattered Flag.

The VFW Auxiliary laid a wreath at the center stone. No observance of Memorial Day would be complete without the New London VFW Honor Guard properly presenting the flags, providing the ceremonial volley and reminding all of those who gave the last full measure of devotion.

Everyone was touched by the observance and left with a renewed sense of thanks.

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