Memorial Day was originally called ‚"Decoration Day‚" and was set aside to honor the men and women who died in the service of America.
On May 5, 1868, General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, issued General Order No. 11 which called for flowers to be placed on the graves of soldiers.
It was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.
Over the years, the military observance has waned although many families use the weekend to place flowers on the graves of deceased loved ones.
At 11 Monday morning, May 30, the annual Henryetta Memorial Day service will be held to honor the fallen soldiers.
The observance will be at the veteran's section of Westlawn Cemetery with post officers speaking.
Sheila Williams and Bill Goodner will be the keynote speakers for the service.
Following those addresses, wreaths will be placed at the monument of the Unknown honoring those who are buried overseas.
Henryetta Boy Scouts will be placing flags on veterans' graves throughout the cemetery Saturday morning. By the time they are done, nearly 2,000 flags will be placed.