Memorial Day

I have never been able to think of the day as one of mourning; I have never quite been able to feel that half-masted flags were appropriate on Decoration Day. I have rather felt that the flag should be at the peak, because those whose dying we commemorate rejoiced in seeing it where their valor placed it. We honor them in a joyous, thankful, triumphant commemoration of what they did. — Benjamin Harrison, 1833-1901, 23rd President of the United States of America

Decoration Day is the most beautiful of our national holidays…. The grim cannon have turned into palm branches, and the shell and shrapnel into peach blossoms. - Thomas Bailey Aldrich, 1836-1907

Let no vandalism of avarice or neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations, that we have forgotten, as a people, the cost of a free and undivided Republic. — May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan, 1826 - 1886

They are dead; but they live in each Patriot’s breast, And their names are engraven on honor’s bright crest. – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1807-1882

And they who for their country die shall fill an honored grave, for glory lights the soldier’s tomb, and beauty weeps the brave. — Joseph Drake, 1795-1820

Are they dead that yet speak louder than we can speak, and a more universal language? Are they dead that yet act? Are they dead that yet move upon society and inspire the people with nobler motives and more heroic patriotism? — Henry Ward Beecher, 1813-1887

These heroes are dead. They died for liberty – they died for us. They are at rest. They sleep in the land they made free, under the flag they rendered stainless, under the solemn pines, the sad hemlocks, the tearful willows, and the embracing vines. They sleep beneath the shadows of the clouds, careless alike of sunshine or of storm, each in the windowless Place of Rest. Earth may run red with other wars – they are at peace. In the midst of battle, in the roar of conflict, they found the serenity of death. I have one sentiment for soldiers living and dead: cheers for the living; tears for the dead. — Robert G. Ingersoll, 1833-1899

I wanted to go to a Memorial Day parade that honored all the dogs and other animals who have died in our Nation's service, but I could not find one! I think Memorial Day should honor all of the brave humans and all of the brave animals that have given their lives while in service to our Country. Those brave animals deserve recognition too! But, having Peace in the World would be the best! I am a dog for Peace! So, let's work together to end all wars and live in a World of Peace! I'm just sayin'...