Memorial Day

Brothers:

On Monday, May 31 we celebrate Memorial Day an American Federal holiday to honor U.S. armed forces men and women who died in battle. Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May and originally known as Decoration Day. It originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans normally observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades (mostly cancelled this year). Unofficially, this weekend and day also marks the beginning of the summer season. Many of you may have had family members who died in battle or friends, particularly our AHEPA veterans. In my family for example George Catsos born in New Jersey, my father’s first cousin, died in battle in the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor on the “Day of Infamy” on Dec. 7, 1941 and is entombed in the U.S.S. Arizona in Pearl Harbor, a U.S. National Memorial. May the memories of all our men and women who have died in battle be eternal. God Bless America and those who served it and gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Fraternally yours,

Brother Lou Katsos

AHEPA District 6 Governor