To the Editor:
Memorial Day originated during the Civil War when some southern women chose May 30 to decorate soldiers’ graves. The women honored both the Union and Confederate armies. It is believed that a Virginia woman, Cassandra Oliver Moncure, was largely responsible.
Memorial Day has since served to preserve remembrance of those who fought that war and all other wars who have given us our legacy of freedom. We should never forget those who still today risk their lives to preserve this legacy of freedom.
After the Civil War ended, my great grandfather, Jacob Smith, who was a Civil War veteran, penned the following short poem:
The sounds of war are silent now;
We call no man our foe,
But soldier hearts cannot forget
The scenes of long ago.
How true that is. Yes – the memory not only holds memories we should not forget, it also holds terrible thoughts which become engraved on our hearts to remain forever. These things should never be forgotten either; but we should never let them weigh so heavy on our hearts till they affect us mentally and physically. If we have not peace within ourselves, it is vain to seek it from outward sources.
So, I pray that as you recalled and dwelt upon our repeated efforts for peace this past Memorial Day, you realized that, though they may have been ill-starred, they were all faithful on the warriors part. That is of the highest moral value. Please keep them in your prayers.
Charles R. Pearson
Chaplain
Malvern Legion Post #375
Malvern, OH
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