Wishing Everyone an Enjoyable and Restful Memorial Day

May 23, 2025

Dear Colleagues, 

I want to wish everyone an enjoyable and restful Memorial Day weekend, as we recall those who we salute on this day — the brave men and women who gave their lives in service of our country.

As we recognize their sacrifice, it’s worth remembering that, like our nation, Memorial Day has evolved over time. The tradition’s origins date back more than a century and a half, to when local ceremonies were held across the country honoring the many thousands of soldiers who fought and died in the Civil War.

This observance was originally known as Decoration Day and celebrated on May 30. Over the decades, it grew into a National Day of Remembrance. Following World War I, it expanded yet again to become a day when we acknowledge all members of the U.S. military who died in the line of duty. Finally, in the late 1960s, Congress passed legislation officially naming the observance Memorial Day and moving it to the last Monday in May.

Today, in remembering those who gave their lives for our freedom, we can also honor their example by continuing to provide compassionate care and assistance to our neighbors in need — just as each of you does, day in and day out.

On that note, I want to express my deep thanks for all that you do, every day, on behalf of our organization and VNS Health’s mission.

I hope everyone has a very nice Memorial Day! 

 Dan  

Dan Savitt
President and Chief Executive Officer