 Memorial Day is a time for all Americans to honor those generations of patriots who died in service to our nation. On May 5th, 1868, the Grand Army of the Republic established Decoration Day, a day for the nation to decorate the graves of the Civil War dead. That same year, the first large observance of Decoration Day was held at Arlington National Cemetery. In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday held on the last Monday of May to honor those who died in all American wars. This year, take a moment to reflect on those who have gone before you. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. local time. For more information on Memorial Day, visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website. From the Defense Media Activity, I'm petty officer Ian Cotter.