MEMORIAL DAY

Memorial Day is a US public holiday observed on the last Monday in May and often marks the beginning of summer. Memorial Day's meaning is to commemorate and pay tribute to soldiers who passed away while serving the military service- the Army, Air-force, Navy, SEALs, among other specialized units. The holiday was formerly called Decoration Day because Americans decorate the graves of the fallen soldiers with flowers and American flags.

In honor of this day, the American flag is raised to half position until noon, to honor the departed souls. After 12 pm, the flag is hoisted to full staff as a reminder that the nation lives and the country will always honor the sacrifice of the soldiers by fighting for justice for all.

Memorial Day History

Initially, the day only honored the soldiers who lost their lives in the Civil war where more than 620000 deaths were recorded. Though, after World War I, the holiday was set as a commemoration of the military personnel who died in all wars. The day used to be called Decoration Day up until the late 19th century when the name was changed to Memorial Day.

The Memorial Day remembrance was first observed on 30th May 1868. From then henceforth, the day was continually observed on May 30th until 1968 when the Uniforms Holiday Bill declared the official day as the last Monday in May.

There has been controversy where many cities have claimed to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. In May 1966, President Lyndon Johnson put the dispute to an end by officially declaring Waterloo, New York, as the rightful birthplace of the Memorial Day.

What's The Difference Between Memorial Day And Veterans Day?

The Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day difference is something most people do not understand. Memorial Day is intended to honor all military personnel who died in the line of duty. Veterans Day, on the other hand, commemorates all those who have served in the military, whether dead or alive.

How Is Memorial Day Celebrated?

Most Americans visit the national cemeteries where they lay flowers and flags on the graves. It is also a tradition to host the flag at half-mast until noon. Given that the memorial weekend is very long, you can attend sporting events, picnics, BBQs, spend time with family or donate to an organization that serves veterans. Most retail shops hold a week-long Memorial Day sale making it a great weekend to go shopping with family and friends. If you would rather go outdoors, then plan to attend a memorial parade near your town.

Memorial Day Traditions

Memorial Day is seen as a time to honor and remember the fallen soldiers. It is a common practice for Americans to visit military cemeteries and decorate the graves with flowers, wreaths, and flags. Memorial parades are held across the country with the most famous being in Washington DC, where red poppies are displayed as a symbol of fallen soldiers.

What Is Closed On Memorial Day?

As a federal holiday, government offices, post office, banks, and schools are closed. Recreational parks, airports, public transit systems, and hospitals, however remain operational throughout the day.

Interesting Memorial Day facts

- Since 1775, there have been more than 2.7 million US Military deaths

- Civil War was the deadliest war the US has ever participated in.

- Congress passed a law that requires all Americans to pause whatever they are doing at 3 pm on Memorial Day and honor the dead militants.

- There are over 300000 soldiers buried at the Arlington Cemetery.