Today is Memorial Day. A time set aside to honor those who gave their lives serving in the armed forces. Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day was started in the years following the Civil War. It was designated an official holiday in 1971. In this area, there’s a Memorial Day Ceremony honoring Sailors and Marines this morning at 8:30 at the Crooked Creek Bridge. At 10:00 there will be ceremony for all veterans at Washington’s Elm Grove Cemetery. Most government offices and many businesses are closed today in observance of Memorial Day.