Today is not just another Monday Holiday as most everyone knows. Memorial Day (originally known as Decoration Day) is a day to commemorate US Service Members who died while serving their country.
In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Holiday Bill, which moved four holidays to Monday. This meant the traditional May 30th celebration ended. Many believe, and I agree, the day has lost some of it’s luster as a Monday holiday.
At 3 PM today a national moment of remembrance will take place. Events across the country will pause as we remember our fallen soldiers.
This week I drove to Exit 86 along Iowa’s stretch of Interstate 80 between Des Moines and Omaha. The Greenfield exit is known for the “Freedom Rock,” not the late night infomercial for classic rock cd’s, but a work of art honoring our military men and women.
The murals on the rock have been there since 1999 painted by Ray “Bubba” Sorenson II, a local artist and entrepreneur. A rock known for graffiti and other interesting works from local teens became Ray’s canvas when he chose to take his turn and honor our military. Each year Sorenson changes the artwork to create a new memorial and dedicates it just prior to Memorial Day. Travelers from across the country stop and view the rock and take pictures to capture the memories.
Sorenson maintains a website with photos and information about the project….
A quick Goggle of Freedom Rock or the artist will reveal pages of information and the stories behind his works.
Today we fly our flags with pride. We celebrate our freedoms and give thanks for those who gave their lives so we could enjoy the last Monday in May away from work.
Enjoy the barbecues and cocktails today knowing our military men and women around the world stand ready.
Never Forget and maybe a big Thank You the next time you see someone in uniform.
Happy Memorial Day!
Written May 28, 2012
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