Memorial Day is a federal holiday to honor soldiers’ service to the United States and the sacrifices that come along with it. We are called to mourn the losses of soldiers who have died while serving in the US Armed Forces. Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May; this year it is on the 26th. It is also considered the unofficial start to summer.
Formerly known as Decoration Day (a tradition honoring Civil War veterans by decorating graves), Memorial Day honors those who have died during the nation’s wars. During the American Civil War, citizens placed flowers on the graves of soldiers killed in battle. Many towns claim to be the “birthplace” of this beloved holiday, including areas in Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Mississippi, and New York.
The debate was effectively ended in 1966 when Waterloo, New York, was cited as the “birthplace” by congressional proclamation. Almost a hundred years prior, John A. Logan (the commander in chief of the Grand Army of the Republic) promoted a national holiday on May 30th to decorate the graves of comrades (Union veterans) who died in the defense of the US during the rebellion.
Following WWI, the name was changed from Decoration Day to Memorial Day, formally indicating how the day was to be observed in honor of all who died in US wars, not only for Civil War veterans. Memorial Day has been observed on the last Monday in May since 1971. Wreath laying, religious services, parades, and speeches are performed all throughout the nation to commemorate the lives lost in the valiant fight for democracy. Graves are decorated with flags, insignia, and flowers.
Memorial Day is not just a “get out of school” card. It is a celebration of the lives and legacies of some of America’s most unsung heroes. The United States would not be standing here today if it were not for the sacrifices of our soldiers. Thus Memorial Day is a glorious way to celebrate all that we have.
References:
Encyclopædia Britannica. (n.d.). Memorial Day. Britannica School. Retrieved April 28, 2025, from https://school.eb.com/levels/high/article/Memorial-Day/51942
