By Shavonne Potts
spotts@salisburypost.com
SALISBURY — Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, was initially a way to honor those who died following the Civil War. It is now celebrated to remember all who’ve died in military service.
This Memorial Day the Salisbury Post asked people in the community what significance this day holds for them and if they will spend it with family:
Beverly McCraw
“I’ll spend time with relatives,” McCraw said.
Her 16-year-old son is in ROTC and he’ll probably participate in a Memorial Day event.
Though she doesn’t have a military family, McCraw believes that since her son wants to become a Marine, she’ll one day be a military mom.
Doris Lingerfelt
The day means a time to remember her husband, who was a veteran. He died years ago.
David Honeycutt
It’s a time to cookout and be with family and friends. Also to take the time to remember those who served on Memorial Day.
“If it wasn’t for them we wouldn’t be here. We wouldn’t have our freedom,” Honeycutt said.
Dianna Jones
Her relatives used to have family gatherings. At this time of the year she remembers her mother who died.
“She’s always in my heart,” Jones said.
Dieanna Brandon
“I take time to really think about what our freedom means. To remember those people who made sacrifices,” Brandon said.
Her father served in the Army in Korea and she remembers him at this time.
Alex Heilig
“It’s a time to pay respect for those who protect and serve,” Helig said.
Lynn Harrell
She grew up in a military family, where her father served in the Air National Guard. He just retired, she said.
“We celebrate that aspect of life,” Harrell said.
It was a time of togetherness for the family with a cookout.
Harrell said she has a healthy respect for the military.
“There’s a lot of sacrifice involved in that,” she said.
Share your thoughts about what Memorial Day means to you at www.salisburypost.com.
Contact reporter Shavonne Potts at 704-797-4253.