Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States to honor men and women who died while in the military. I remember when it originally was called Decoration Day.  At many national cemetaries there are ceremonies and volunteers who place small American flags on all the graves. Amidst all the sales at the mall that seem to take over our holidays and the unofficial beginning of summer as many people use this weekend for traveling and summer fun, we should all pause to remember the real meaning of this holiday.

If you have family members who served in the military, you might want to check out www.Ancestry.com which is giving free access to draft, enlistment and service records through May 27th. It is SO fascinating to look up these records.  You just have to sign up for a free account.  I just looked up my grandfather’s World War I registration card.  He was just my youngest son’s age. It’s amazing to read his physical description, address, and see his signature in his own handwriting.  These records might be something you can use in your scrapbooking.

Enjoy your day!