Monday, May 29, 2023
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Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday in May. Memorial Day honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.
Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day and originated in the years following the Civil War. It became an official federal holiday in 1971 and unofficially, marks the beginning of the summer season. Originally, Memorial Day only honored those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But, during World War I the U.S. found itself in another major conflict and the
holiday evolved to commemorate American military who died in all wars. For decades it was celebrated on May 30th, the date General Logan had selected for the first Decoration Day. But, in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May in order to create a 3-day weekend for federal employees. The change went into effect in 1971. The same law also declared Memorial Day a federal holiday.
Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Some wear a red poppy in remembrance of those fallen in war.
We hope all of you take a moment and reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day while you are out celebrating your freedoms with your families.
