[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 67 (Wednesday, May 22, 2002)]
[House]
[Pages H2835-H2836]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         RESTORING MEMORIAL DAY

  (Mr. GIBBONS asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1

[[Page H2836]]

minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. GIBBONS. Mr. Speaker, over the years the true meaning of Memorial 
Day has faded from the public consciousness. Memorial Day began after 
the Civil War as a solemn day of mourning, remembrance, and honor to 
our departed loved ones. But today, Memorial Day seems to be more about 
planning a 3-day weekend than remembering our fallen heroes. As a 
veteran of two wars, I know all too well that Memorial Day is much more 
than a 3-day weekend or the beginning of a summer sale.
  Veteran's Day, a day set aside to honor all veterans, living and 
dead, is celebrated on November 11, regardless of which day of the week 
it falls on. The same should be true for Memorial Day.
  Mr. Speaker, this week I am introducing legislation restoring 
Memorial Day to its actual day, May 30. We owe our loved ones and 
friends who died in service to their country a restored Memorial Day.

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