A time to remember...

Memorial Day holds separate meaning for different people. The day has morphed from a day to remember those who gave their lives serving in the U.S. military, to one honoring loved ones lost and spending time with important people around you.

In 1968, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was passed, establishing Memorial Day as the last Monday in May. The purpose, according to history.com, was to create a three-day weekend for federal employees.

In 1971, the change went into effect, creating the opportunity to make the holiday weekend about friends, family and fun with parties and barbecues, kicking off the summer season.

And while we would never shy away from the chance to enjoy the warm weather with those we love, we want to encourage everyone to remember the true meaning of Memorial Day while you celebrate. Take time to visit the graves of the ones you love, attend the Memorial Day service on Monday, May 27, at 10 a.m. at Greenwood Cemetery in Newcastle. This year’s event is hosted by VFW Post No. 2516 and American Legion.

If you can’t attend the ceremony, they are still looking for volunteers to place flags on graves of military and auxiliary members’ graves on Sunday at 2 p.m. Or, purchase a red poppy in remembrance of those fallen in war.

While the date has changed from May 30 to the last Monday in May and the name gradually changed from Decoration Day to Memorial Day, it is important that we all remember the true meaning of the holiday that dates back to the Civil War. In this issue, we do so by dedicating a page to one of our local heroes, Robert Rinegar of Upton, on Page 7. Read about Rinegar’s experience in the U.S. Navy, and, while you do, reflect on the many veterans and families in our community and their contributions to our freedom.