Memorial Day honors all U.S. military personnel who died in service.
Originally called Decoration Day, it began in the late 1860s as people decorated Civil War soldiers’ graves with flowers. In 1868, General John A. Logan, head of a Union veterans’ group, designated May 30 for this purpose, chosen for its neutrality and blooming flowers. By the late 19th century, it was a widespread tradition. Post-World War I, the holiday expanded to honor all American war dead. In 1971, Congress made it a national holiday.
This site was originally created to honor and memorialize the 116 Edison alumni who died in service during World War 2.
On 27May1949, the Friday before Memorial Day, a memorial plaque was dedicated and placed at the entrance to the school auditorium where it has been located for the last 77 years.
Through the diligent efforts of many, 7 Edison Heroes from the Korean War, and 14 Edison Heroes from the Vietnam War are now honored with memorial plaques hanging in the same hallway as the original World War 2 plaque. Click here to see pictures of the 3 plaques.
On this Memorial Day, please honor and remember the 137 Edison alumni, and every man and woman who died in service to the country during war.
Their names can be found here.
Edison Heroes 