PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Memorial Day was first observed in 1868 to recognize the sacrifices of those who fought and died in the Civil War. Over the years, it has become a day to honor all who have died serving the country in the armed forces.
It is also the unofficial start of the summer, and in a special way, it is a tribute to those who have died so that we can celebrate freely.
This year, we can’t help but look back and see how bleak the coronavirus pandemic was. The U.S. had suffered almost 100,000 deaths at this time last year, and a vaccine was still far off.
Some have suggested that this year we should not only honor those who died fighting in wars but also those who died battling the virus.
KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.