 The sights and sounds of Memorial Day. It's a great weekend. We get a little extra time off and it feels like the unofficial start to summer. But it's not all burgers and hot dogs. Let's take it back. I mean, way back. Like the 1800s. By the time the Civil War had ended in 1865, tragedy had struck almost everybody. More than 600,000 had lost their lives and the nation was in mourning. Days of observance began popping up all over the country with no clear organization. Under the Grand Army of the Republic, a group of Union vets who established Decoration Day. As the unfortunate need for wars continued throughout the 20th century, the observance was still held, but over time the name changed from Decoration Day to Memorial Day until it was officially changed in 1967. No matter what it's called, the meaning behind Memorial Day has always been the same. To remember and memorialize those lost in battle. So, from all of us at the DOD, enjoy your Memorial Day, but don't forget the reason why we remember.