The planning is in full force for Jamestown’s Memorial Day Parade to be held Monday, May 27.

United Veterans Council of Jamestown members are asking that the community reflects on what Memorial Day truly means to them. Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day to remember and honor for those who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It is believed that several organized groups were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War, which shows it likely has many separate beginnings. However, each gathering to honor the war dead in the 1860s brought about a growing movement of heartfelt need to honor the veterans who died in service to the country. In his General Order 11, on May 5, 1868, Memorial Day was officially proclaimed by Gen. John Logan, National Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic. On May 30, 1868, Memorial Day was first observed. It wasn’t until 1971 that Memorial Day observance was switched to the last Monday in May to ensure a three-day weekend for federal holidays.

“The traditional observance of Memorial Day has diminished over the years. Many Americans have forgotten the true meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. Proper flag etiquette for the day and on a daily basis is not known or followed. Many have been distracted from the true spirit and meaning of the day. What was meant to be a solemn, sacred day of remembrance has simply turned into another day off, sales at local stores and a reason to cook out and party,” said Joe Paladino, United Veterans Council of Jamestown cemetery chairman. “The United Veterans Council is asking that before you enjoy going shopping and having your cookouts, parties and family gatherings, that you please take a few minutes and pause in remembrance of those who gave all and thank them for your freedom. Memorial Day is meant to be a somber day to remember those service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice in dedication to our country’s freedoms. Freedom is Not Free! These men and women paid for it, giving their lives, so that we can live freely. It is important for people to understand this and teach each new generation to remember that they live their lives so freely because these men and women volunteered and sacrificed theirs. To think about and begin to understand the price these men and women paid, can let us really appreciate the value of our freedom. There is nothing more meaningful than honoring those who have served and made the ultimate sacrifice for every individual in the United States of America.”

The United Veterans Council invites all veterans and their families, organizations, groups, schools and government officials to join them in this year’s Memorial Day Parade. The parade will be Monday, May 27. Line-up will start at 9 a.m. and the parade will start promptly at 10 a.m. with services to follow in Soldiers’ Circle at Lakeview Cemetery. To participate, call Melodie Paladino, United Veterans Council of Jamestown secretary, at 450-6768. Planning meetings will be held on Wednesdays, May 1, May 8, May 15 and May 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the Ira Lou Springs Post 149 American Legion, 364 Fluvanna Ave., Jamestown.