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Decoration Day
By Nick Aitoro
Today was originally called Decoration Day—a time set aside to honor those who gave their lives during the American Civil War by decorating their graves. First widely observed on May 30, 1868, this tradition grew into what we now know as Memorial Day.
As we reflect on our nation’s history and the cost of conflict, one fact stands out—one that is often overlooked: even using the lowest estimates, more U.S. soldiers died in the Civil War than in all other American wars combined. That staggering reality tells us something deeply profound.
Why is this important?
Because the Civil War was not fought on foreign soil. It wasn’t between nations—it was among brothers, families, and fellow citizens. If we accept the idea that we often hurt most deeply the ones we’re closest to—the ones we love—then the Civil War stands as a heartbreaking reminder of what happens when a nation turns on itself.
This Memorial Day, may we not only honor the fallen, but also remember the cost of division. Let their sacrifice be a call for unity, empathy, and understanding—so that the freedoms they died to protect are never taken for granted, nor turned against one another.
