Memorial Day

Originally known as Decoration Day, the Memorial Day is right around the corner. Make sure to honor veterans and those who died serving in the U.S. military.

Memorial Day History

On May 5, 1868, in Waterloo, N.Y. the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) had established the Decoration Day to decorate the graves of around 620,000 Americans who died in the Civil War. A General in the Union Army, John A. Logan, declared the Decoration Date celebration to the day when the flowers will be blossoming nationwide, on May 30.

In 1966, Congress and President Lyndon Johnson, announced Waterloo, N.Y. the “birthplace” of Memorial Day. Until 1971, the Memorial Day was celebrated on May 30 throughout the nation.  Later the celebration was moved to the last Monday of May, which this year actually falls on May 30th. On Dec. 28, 2000, Bill Clinton signed the National Moment of Remembrance Act designating National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time.

Things to Do on Memorial Day

Memorial Day isn’t just a nice long weekend before the summer. It’s a way to honor veterans for all their sacrifices. Attend events below to honor our veterans:

• Memorial Day Parade – there are memorial parades in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lebanon, Perry, and York counties.

• Fireworks – there is an annual pyrofest this weekend

• Special Celebration Ceremony at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum

• Church and Parish Celebrations at St. Ursula, Allison Park

Are you or your spouse a veteran? See if you are eligible for A&A Pension that can provide up to $1,788 per month to a veteran, $1,149 per month to a surviving spouse, or $2,120 per month to a couple. This amount is subject to change. Many of our veterans do not know that this program exists and even more are overwhelmed by the application process. Call WPHHAat (412)421-0909 and we will help you to find out if you are eligible and assist with application process absolutely FREE.

Western Pennsylvania home Health Association is a non-profit organization, servicing clients throughout Western Pennsylvania. At WPHHA we have coined the term “mobile healthcare services” to meet your needs on your time. These include in-home nursing, non-medical homecare and rehabilitation services. Our main concern is to help you or your loved ones maintain the highest level of wellness and independence possible.

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