Oregon War Veterans Blog

Memorial Day Events in Oregon

Salem-News.com

(SALEM, Ore. ) - Each year on Memorial Day, Americans pay honor to all of those who have died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

In recognition of the holiday’s rich history, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is announcing the Memorial Day celebrations occurring statewide of which the agency has been made aware.

Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day was first observed on May 30, 1868 as a day in which the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers would be decorated with flowers.

The holiday’s name was later changed to Memorial Day. In 1971, it became a federal holiday to be observed on the last Monday in May.

MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS THROUGHOUT OREGON:

OWVA Director calls Lars Larson

On Wednesday (at approx. 11:45 AM), Greg Warnock called the Lars Larson Show on 750 KXL Radio, to express his primary reason for OWVA's endorsement of Kevin Mannix.

OWVA- Oregon Primary Races

Note from executive director, Greg Warnock:

OWVA rarely gets involved in Primary campaign races, unless candidates request an endorsement.

In 2008's Primary season, only four candidates asked for OWVA's endorsement. 

OWVA produces it's first widely viewed TV commercial- "OWVA endorses Kevin Mannix for Congress."

This TV Commercial is being aired on all Portland area networks and many Comcast Cable channels through May 20, 2008.

Kevin Mannix receives OWVA Citizenship Award.

The Board of directors for the Oregon War Veterans Association (OWVA) agreed that Kevin Mannix deserved their highest civilian award.  The Citizenship Award is given to individuals and organizations who demonstrate an "above the call of duty" support for veterans, members of Oregon's military and their families.