As the last Monday in May comes by each year, countless American flags stand tall, neighborhoods are filled with the delicious smell of cookouts, and families gather to enjoy the long weekend. But beyond the barbecues and weekend trips, Memorial Day is a day meant to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States. Memorial day has a rich history but its sole purpose of honoring those who gave up their all for the nation has always been a constant.
Long before Memorial Day became associated with barbecues, it was a day of remembrance due to the Civil War. The war was the deadliest in American history and led to the establishment of the first national cemeteries.
Following the war, many Americans started holding tributes for the soldiers by laying flowers and reciting prayers. On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan made May 30 as “Decoration Day,” where graves of those who died defending the nation were meant to be decorated. The first major ceremony took place at Arlington National Cemetery, where 5,000 people gathered and decorated 20,000 graves with flowers.
Later, Lyndon B. Johnson declared “Decoration Day” as “Memorial Day” at Waterloo, NY in 1966, a national holiday honoring all those who have fallen in any American conflict beyond just the civil war. In 1968, Congress declared it as a national holiday occurring on the last Monday of May. The change went into effect in 1971.
Throughout the nation, communities gather for parades that feature veterans, active military personnel, and patriotic displays, with huge celebrations taking place in cities. Many Americans visit cemeteries and memorials to lay flowers or flags on the graves of soldiers. Some people wear red poppies in remembrance, which was inspired by the World War I poem “In Flanders Fields.”
Families also attend memorial services or visit veterans’ homes to show appreciation and support. At 3pm local time, Americans participate in the National Moment of Remembrance, a moment of silence to honor those who gave their lives in service. Other forms of celebration include memorial day concerts, attending memorial day marches, and sharing a veteran’s story on social media. Even doing something as simple as raising the American flag is a way to appreciate the sacrifices that make American freedom possible.
From its origins during the Civil War to its modern day form, this holiday is a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice by the people who have allowed this country to thrive.
Sources:
https://www.history.com/articles/memorial-day-history
