What does Memorial Day mean to you? If you are like most Americans, it is the unofficial launch of summer. With the day off of work, you have plans to enjoy picnics, parades and parties with friends and family. Yet this holiday has a deeper meaning. Since it was announced as an official national holiday, Memorial Day has been a time to honor those who have given their lives to protect our freedoms. At Schaaf Floral, we would like to take this time to say “thank you” to those who have given the ultimate gift in defense of our country.

The Rich History of the Holiday

Memorial Day has its roots in Decoration Day, a day set aside to honor those who have fallen in war. The desire to have this sort of a day started after the Civil War, when General John Logan proclaimed May 30 as a designated day to place flowers on the graves of fellow soldiers who had died during the war. The first Decoration Day ceremony took place at Arlington National Cemetery, with General James Garfield making a speech.

In 1873, New York was the first state to nationally recognize the holiday. The southern states refused to participate, honoring their dead at a separate date instead. It was not until World War I that the southern states participated, as the purpose of the holiday shifted to honoring all American soldiers who had died in any war. In 1971, the last Monday in May was declared the official day for the holiday, and it was renamed Memorial Day.

Celebrating Memorial Day

Remembrance

Today, Americans celebrate Memorial Day by placing flowers and wreaths on the graves of those they have lost in war. They may also share stories of heroic soldiers, participate in parades and festivals to honor heroes and give gifts to families who lost loved ones to war.

If you have someone that you wish to honor this Memorial Day with the gift of flowers, Schaaf Floral has an ideal option. Our Remembrance arrangement is the ideal patriotic gift to show your support and love this Memorial Day.

With beautiful red, white and blue flowers, this arrangement is housed in an opaque blue vase. It is adorned with a small American flag, so the meaning is unmistakable. Your gift is one that will be treasured and appreciated with Remembrance. Contact Schaaf Floral today to have Remembrance delivered to your friend or family member this Memorial Day.