“For love of country they accepted death… and made immortal their patriotism and their virtue.”
- General James A. Garfield
The first official observance of Memorial Day was May 30, 1868. Originally known as “Decoration Day”, this somber holiday was established to recognize those who lost their lives in battle during the Civil War. A ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery was attended by 5000 volunteers who decorated the graves of approximately 20,000 fallen soldiers. Also in attendance was General James Garfield, who delivered a speech that is still relevant today.
Over time, Memorial Day evolved into a day of remembrance for all military personnel who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. In 1971 it was declared a national holiday as part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, and is now observed on the last Monday of May.
The team at Fantacular Designs has taken this opportunity to design the photo above as a public expression of our appreciation for those who sacrificed their lives for the freedoms we enjoy today.
