What is Memorial Day?
In the US the last Monday in May marks the official holiday of Memorial Day where Americans nationwide honor fallen fallen soldiers who died while serving in the armed forces with parades, commemorative services, and of course barbecues.
When did it begin?
Officially it was declared a national holiday in 1971 but has roots after the Civil War where both the Union and the Confederacy families and survivors needed a way to mourn their fallen. It was named "Declaration Day" on May 30, 1868. There are 25 different cities that claim it started there at earlier dates but the choice of this date probably coincided with more flowers being in bloom to decorate graves. Some historians have debated some form of this holiday dates back to ancient Roman and Greek traditions where the public was allowed to mourn after battles and lay flowers and sing songs for the fallen.
How is it celebrated today?
Today its sadly turned into the end of school, the start of summer, a 3-day weekend, and sales. The original intent was to observe the solemn sacrifice of fallen soldiers and pay respects but as we are losing more of the WWII veterans the holiday seems to be losing that focus and more into the leisure of summer.
I have fond memories placing flags along the headstones of soldiers in my youth and I think this year I'm going to attend a service and pay respects.
How are you going to observe Memorial Day this weekend?
Comment below if you want to share or have a memory of your own you'd like to tell.
