Memorial Day

For the info of those outside the US, today is our Memorial Day. It was originally set aside as a day to remember the dead from the American Civil war of 1861 to 1865. Just as memories were fading from that war, the losses of World War I made the observance permanent. Along with Independence Day in July and Labor Day in September it is one of the few nonreligious holidays sponsored by the government which is actually observed with a day off from work for most of us not just the government itself and banks. Different families observe the day in different ways. Those with loved ones killed in war may visit cemeteries. Those that don't might go to the beach, go boating, have a picnic, watch car racing or listen to it on the radio, generally enjoying what amounts to the first days of the summer season here.

I thought I share today what Memorial Day long ago was like. Not so different from today perhaps...( Long story follows )