From Wikipedia:
Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday that is observed on the last Monday of May. It was formerly known as Decoration Day. This holiday commemorates U.S. men and women who died in military service for their country. It began first to honor Union soldiers who died during the American Civil War. After World War I, it expanded to include those who died in any war or military action.
We sometimes forget the reason for this holiday. No, it is not to give us another three-day weekend. Nor is it just simply the start the vacation season. It is a day to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice – giving their lives – so that we might live free.
The Virginian-Pilot has a list of Hampton Roads casualties of war. But the website rendition does not do it justice. Take a look at the printed page, which was the entire editorial page today.
Today, we remember.
VIVIAN J. PAIGE | All Politics is Local 
Nice post. We focus too much on the day off and don’t make time to think about the meaning.