5.29.2011

THE MEANING OF MEMORIAL DAY/WEEKEND

I previously stated that Memorial Day was the kick-off to summer but that isn’t the real meaning about why we celebrate this holiday every year. Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May.


Memorial Day was previously known as Decoration Day and it was first endorsed by formerly enslaved African-Americans to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War. The first time this day was observed was in May 30, 1868 when 5K people helped decorate the gravesites of 20K Union and Confederate soldiers buried at Arlington National Cemetery. After WWI it was decided that Memorial Day should be for all fallen U.S. Service members from all the American wars.

Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday in 1971. People now honor the military personnel with different type of celebrations such as parades, family get-togethers, and fireworks. Many people observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place every year at Arlington National Cemetery at 3pm.
In remembrance of all our fallen military service men and women, have a safe Memorial Day.

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