More than just a three-day weekend …

Frontiersman editorial baord

Memorial Day often conjures up images of backyard barbecues, rafting trips, fishing, frosty beverages and laughing with family and friends. With the tendency to treat the weekend as the first big jump into summer recreation, it's no wonder some veterans are now pushing for the three-day weekend aspect of Memorial Day to be eliminated.

Memorial Day, officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, the national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, was first observed on May 30 of that year when flowers were placed on the graves of the Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.

While "Decoration Day" originally honored Civil War dead, Memorial Day now honors brave Americans who have died in all wars.

It became a three-day weekend in 1968, and many civic groups have come up with their own traditions to commemorate the holiday. Moina Michaels, poet of 1915 "In Flanders Fields" fame, is said to be the first to sell red poppies to her friends and co-workers to wear on Memorial day, donating the proceeds to servicemen, then later to orphaned children and war widows.

Whatever your tradition, it's important to remember the sacrifices of those who gave their lives for our freedoms. If you haven't already made plans to honor our war heroes, here's a brief list of observances:

Hike to Mount POW/MIA summit, May 25, 9 a.m. -- Colony High School Jr. ROTC cadets will lead a hike to the summit and hold a brief ceremony at the top. The five-mile hike begins 3.1 miles from the pavement's end on Eklutna Lake Road. Call 746-9542 or 745-4190 in the late evening for more information.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9365, May 27, 11 a.m. -- flag ceremony at the post at 301 E. Lakeview Ave.

Veterans' Wall of Honor, May 27, 1 p.m. -- a special tribute to police and firemen who gave their lives during the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks will be held, in addition to the annual ceremony.

VFW Post 6501, May 27, 11 a.m. -- Memorial Day services at Palmer Pioneer Cemetery.

Talkeetna VFW Post 3836, May 27, 11 a.m. -- Memorial Day services at the Talkeetna Cemetery, with an open house at the post to follow.