When you think of Memorial Day, what are your first thoughts? 

Backyard barbeques? 

The beginning of the summer season?

Parades down Main Street? 

Old men and woman in their military caps? 

Homes with the America Flag on display? 

All of the above are the traditions of Memorial Day — not what the day means. Memorial Day is something more than food, parades and drinks. It all began in 1868 when General John Logan the national commander of the Grand Army of the republic, officially proclaimed it in his General Order No. 11. 

The Order, the General proclaimed, “The 30th of May 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.”

Because the day wasn't the anniversary of any particular battle, the General called it, The date of Decoration Day. On the first Decoration Day, 5,000 participants decorated the graves of 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers buried at Arlington Cemetery while General James Garfield made a historic speech:

“We do not know one promise these men made, one pledge they gave, one word they spoke; but we do know they summed up and perfected, by one supreme act, the highest virtues of men and citizens. For love of country they accepted death, and thus resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism and their virtue.” 

Without honoring those who came before us, we can lead those who are with us now. Correctly understanding history is crucial for effective leadership. It provides valuable insights and lessons that can guide leaders in making informed decisions and avoiding past mistakes. Here are some key impacts of understanding history for leaders:

So today, when adhering to the Memorial Day traditions, acknowledge those who gave their life for our country’s freedom. Pay respect to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. And by understanding the role history plays in our leadership journey, we can remember those with reverence and admiration and pass on their legacy.

The Daily Coach honors those military personnel and families as far back as 1868 on this Memorial Day. Thank you.

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