Tree Talk: A day to remember

Memorial Day marks the beginning of the summer season. This is a time for celebrating graduations, the end of the school year and family get-togethers. But at the root of this weekend holiday is the somber remembrance to honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many communities host formal Memorial Day programs and Americans observe the day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, decorating graves with flags and flowers.

Arlington National Cemetery serves as a national shrine and final resting place for more than 400,000 active duty service members, veterans and their families. The cemetery is comprised of more than 600 acres of land that once belonged to the grandson of President George Washington. It is the location of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where soldiers from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) keep a 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year vigil. The cemetery remains active with funeral services every day of the week, conducting up to 30 services each week day. If you visit this memorial site, you may see a horse-drawn caisson carrying an American flag-draped casket, hear the firing of three rifle volleys in the distance, or feel a lump in your throat as a lone bugler plays the 24 lingering notes of Taps. These honors are examples of the dignified way we take care of those who have defended and protected our freedoms.

Memorial Arboretum at Arlington National Cemetery is a living tribute to those who have honorably served their nation. The landscape features gardens and more than 9,600 native and exotic trees, representing more than 300 varieties and species. Some of the oldest trees, at nearly 250 years old, were planted before any burials took place. More than 140 memorial trees have been planted to commemorate veterans, military units, battles, families and others who serve.

Consider planting a tree as a tribute to the birth of a child, a new graduate, a newly wedded couple, or in memory of a loved one. The tree will serve as a lasting memorial while it provides the practical services of shade and beauty.